Former names Student Ice Arena Capacity 4,200 Construction cost 2.6 million USD | Surface 200' x 85' (hockey) Opened 14 January 1972 | |
Location Michigan Tech Univ.
Houghton, MI 49931 Operator Michigan Technological University Owner Michigan Technological University Team Michigan Tech Huskies men's ice hockey Similar Sherman Field, Dee Stadium, Berry Events Center, Ewigleben Arena, Taffy Abel Arena | ||
John J. MacInnes Student Ice Arena is a 4,200-capacity hockey arena in Houghton, Michigan. It is home to the Michigan Tech Huskies men's ice hockey team. It is named for John J. MacInnes, head coach of the Huskies from 1956 to 1983, who was one of the most successful coaches in the history of college hockey with a record of 555-295-39.
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In addition to hockey, the arena is used for Spring Commencement ceremonies. The arena's original Wurlitzer organ was used during the Commencement ceremonies, until it was removed during the 2009 renovations.
In 2008, the original wooden seats were replaced with plastic seats. Renovations continued in 2009 with the addition of twelve private suites at the west end of the arena. An office renovated in 2010 became the thirteenth suite. The design for the renovations were completed by the renowned architecture firm Rossetti Architects, a Michigan-based company. The ten smaller center suites are leased by the season, and the larger three corner suites are game-by-game rentals.
In 2013, the center-hung fixed digit scoreboard was replaced with a new Mitsubishi Electric video scoreboard featuring four 14-foot by 8-foot LED video screens.
Traditions
The John MacInnes Student Ice Arena is home to many traditions. The oldest and by far the most well known is the Copper Country Anthem. The tradition was started as an insult to Polka music that was popular at the time. The song Blue Skirt Waltz was taken and slowed down as a bastardization of the song, people rose from their seats and began to sway. From then on, the Copper Country Anthem was played and people continue to stand and sway during the second intermission. Also the Huskies Pep Band plays "In Heaven There Is No Beer" in which many extra verses have been added over the years. Including references to snow, referees, sex, and marijuana. The student section, Mitch's Misfits, known to be some of the best fans of college hockey, stand throughout the game in support of the team.
Panorama
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