BOWLING GREEN, Ohio – Bowling Green State University’s Board of Trustees approved the hiring of Moody Nolan for upcoming renovation plans to the Slater Family Ice Arena on Oct. 14, according to BGSU Athletics.
Moody Nolan is an architectural firm based in Columbus and has been assigned the renovation with a budget of $5.75 million.
This project entails upgrades to improve the overall safety, accessibility and function of the ice arena.
Locker room and bathroom renovations are some of what the project has to offer. It will also create a new mezzanine on the south end of the rink, accompanied by suites, concessions and a 1,000-square-foot lobby.
BGSU Hockey Captain Alex Barber, who has been on the team since 2018, looks forward to seeing Slater’s new appearance.
“It’ll be cool to have a fresh modern look in our rink while maintaining the history of the building,” Barber said.
Slater Family Ice Arena first opened in February 1967, two years prior to the introduction of the Division I hockey team. Originally named “BGSU Ice Arena,” its name was changed as a gift to Scott Slater and his family in 2017 due to their commitment to BGSU hockey and helping advance the facility itself.
Hockey Head Coach Ty Eigner has spent many years in the arena, starting from his rookie year with BGSU in 1988. Although he is accustomed to the current building, Eigner is thrilled about the upcoming changes.
“It’ll complete the building for fans, players and anyone else who uses the facility,” Eigner said. “Even though it is already a good atmosphere, we think it’ll enhance it even more.”
Also known as the Madhouse on Mercer, the arena has kept its 5,000-seat capacity for over 50 years. While a lot of history is packed into the 90,000-square-foot arena, Senior Associate Athletic Director Jim Elsasser said the renovations are beneficial for all, especially to the dedicated BGSU hockey fans.
“The proposed renovations will benefit all user groups. The mezzanine will provide an incredible fan experience and allow for a premium seating option. The new entryway will give a fresh look as you arrive at the venue for game night, for public skating, or for any ice arena programming,” Elsasser said. “Lastly, the renovation aids in the recruitment of prospective hockey student-athletes by incrementally improving what is one of the most intimidating home ice advantages in college hockey.”
Renovations are planned to start in the spring. The completion of the new mezzanine level does not have a date yet but will depend on the final construction schedule that will be developed in the next few months.
“This is exciting news for Bowling Green State University and Falcon Hockey,” Eigner said. “Thank you to the BGSU Board of Trustees, Bowling Green State University and President Rogers for their tremendous support of this project. We also want to thank Scott Slater and his family for the gift that made this project possible.”
To learn more about the project, visit bgsufalcons.com.
Updated 10/24/2022 by Falcon Media Staff
