ASU to build new hockey arena, venue will also host events, gymnastics, wrestling

The+PAC-12+Conference+postponed+all+fall+sports+until+at+least+Jan%2C+1%2C+2021

Ken Lund (Flickr)

The PAC-12 Conference postponed all fall sports until at least Jan, 1, 2021

Ivana Venema-Nunez, Reporter

On Dec. 16, 2020 Arizona State University and Sun Devil Athletics announced the start of construction on a new Arena that will host university and community events including men’s hockey, wrestling and women’s gymnastics. 

The multi-purpose arena, located in the Novus Innovation Corridor east of Sun Devil Stadium, across Packard Drive, is managed and operated by Oak View Group and designed by SCI Architects.  Mortenson Construction will serve as design builder, according to The Sun Devils press release. 

“Mortenson is proud to partner with Arizona State University to bring their vision to life,” said Mortenson Vice President and General Manager Ben Goetter. “This is a momentous time for these programs, and we are excited to play a part in this transformational project. Together, with Arizona State University and our partners, we have worked hard to get to where we are today and we are excited to break ground.”

Construction is scheduled to begin in January with the planned fulfillment for December of 2022.

Aside from hosting DI Sun Devil ice hockey, the arena will serve as a public venue for the university and community to host concerts, conferences and youth competitions.  The $115 million, 5,000-seat venue will include 20 luxury suites, two group suites, a large club lounge and event-level premium club seats, according to The Sun Devil article. 

Additionally, a 300-level social deck will run alongside the east side of the venue, providing an aerial view where fans can experience both social and game experience. The opposite side of the arena will feature a 942-seat student section that will take up the entire side of the venue for ASU students to take advantage of an enhanced gameday experience. 

According to the Arizona Republic, ASU hockey currently plays home games at Oceanside Ice Arena but are expected to use the new arena for their entire 2022-23 season.