Minnesota State University, Mankato - Hockey Training Facility
Mankato, MN | Sports + Recreation
Overview
The Minnesota State University, Mankato Division I Hockey program partnered with ISG to redesign their hockey training facility with the goal to elevate their program by enhancing player development, improving the fan experience, assisting with recruitment and player retention, and increasing alumni engagement and fundraising opportunities.
Opportunity
Transforming the facility into a space that met the needs of the athletes, staff, and users proved to be a challenge, but ultimately the success of the project led the team to multiple regular and post season victories, aiding the program’s current and ongoing success.
Solution
Located at the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center, this complete interior renovation needed to meet the needs of both men’s and women’s Minnesota State Maverick Hockey athletes and staff. The redesigned facility capitalized on branding, functionality, and integration of technology that was carried throughout the spaces which include weight training and trainer facilities, player lounge and nutrition spaces, separate coaching officials support spaces, team common spaces, and general storage. Despite the already intensive project scope, ISG designers had to work quickly and efficiently in collaboration with the construction manager who was up against the clock to finish the facility in between seasons.
To ensure project timeliness, the design phase took place during the hockey season which allowed construction to begin at the end of the season and finish in time for fall practice. When players and coaching staff returned, they entered a fresh newly redesigned facility which became a home away from home for many players. Going above and beyond in addressing the team’s constraints, Minnesota State Maverick hockey alumni were amazed to see every inch of their old facility emphasizing functionality and passion. Following project completion, Minnesota State Maverick hockey would continue their legacy of success with more wins than any other collegiate hockey team in the country. This is most notably shown in their performance during the NCAA Frozen Four Tournament in 2021, showing how innovative facility design can unlock the true potential in any program.