A quick trip down University Drive is like taking a tour of some of Penn State athletics’ largest and most famous buildings lighting up the summer sky. With the Bryce Jordan Center and Beaver Stadium looming in the background it’s an impressive sight for any Nittany Lion fan. That trip has added one more late night attraction though as the Pegula Ice Arena can now be seen with its interior lights shining through the all-glass wall located on the east end of the building.
The puck will drop in Penn State’s $90 million hockey facility Friday, Oct. 11 when the Nittany Lions’ men’s hockey team opens the 2013-14 season against the Army Black Knights. Before that happens though there are a few more dates to keep in mind as the facility quickly races towards its grand opening.
- The first layer of ice is scheduled to be put down Aug. 15.
- The first person on skates should be stepping on the ice around Aug. 19.
- Teams and programs will begin moving into the building Sept. 6, with Nittany Lion student-athletes starting informal workouts immediately.
- Public tours could being as early as Sept. 16.
- A “soft opening” is scheduled for Sept. 28, with a “flush test” for the pipes and various equipment and amenities given a run.
The official grand opening will be held Oct. 11. The dedication will be at 1:30 p.m., the doors will open at 6 p.m. at the same time the homecoming parade begins outside the building, and the puck drops at 8 p.m. for the game against Army.
