What's Happening?
Penn State University has announced that its Beaver Stadium will host its first-ever hockey game, featuring an outdoor doubleheader on January 31, 2026. This event will include both the men's and women's hockey teams. The men's team is set to face Michigan State, a significant rivalry game against the two-time defending Big 10 tournament champions. Meanwhile, the women's team will compete against Robert Morris University, a rival from the Atlantic Hockey America conference. This marks a historic moment for Penn State Hockey, as stated by Dr. Patrick Kraft, the school's Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics. The event is part of a broader trend of outdoor hockey games, popularized by the NHL since 2008. Beaver Stadium, with a seating capacity exceeding 106,000, is undergoing a $700 million revitalization project, expected to be completed by 2027. The NHL has shown interest in hosting a game between the Philadelphia Flyers and Pittsburgh Penguins at the venue post-renovation.
Why It's Important?
The decision to host an outdoor hockey doubleheader at Beaver Stadium is significant for several reasons. It highlights the growing popularity and success of Penn State's hockey programs, which have seen considerable achievements in recent years. The men's team has reached the NCAA tournament four times since 2017 and made it to the Frozen Four last season. The women's team has also been successful, winning its conference tournament and reaching the NCAA tournament for three consecutive seasons. This event could further elevate the profile of college hockey and attract more fans to the sport. Additionally, the potential for an NHL game at Beaver Stadium could bring substantial economic benefits to the region, drawing large crowds and increasing tourism.
What's Next?
Following the completion of the stadium's renovations in 2027, there is potential for the NHL to host a game between the Philadelphia Flyers and Pittsburgh Penguins at Beaver Stadium. This would be a significant event, given the stadium's large capacity and the popularity of outdoor hockey games. The success of the upcoming doubleheader could influence the NHL's decision to commit to such an event. Furthermore, the performance of Penn State's hockey teams in this high-profile setting could impact future recruitment and the overall growth of the programs.
Beyond the Headlines
The inclusion of 17-year-old phenom Gavin McKenna, who left Canadian junior hockey for Penn State, adds an intriguing element to the upcoming games. McKenna is expected to be the first overall pick in the next NHL draft, and his decision to join Penn State highlights the increasing influence of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals in college sports. His NIL deal is reportedly around $700,000, significantly higher than the offer from Michigan State, which was also vying for his commitment. This development underscores the evolving landscape of college athletics, where financial incentives play a crucial role in recruitment.
