Oct 24, 2025 - News

St. Thomas' new on-campus arena set to debut

Kyle Stokes

Lee and Penny Anderson Arena is set for its first puck drop. Photo: Courtesy of Kylie Macziewski/St. Thomas Athletic Department.

The University of St. Thomas' new on-campus arena opens today with a doubleheader of men's and women's hockey games.

Why it matters: Anderson Arena's debut is another milestone for the Twin Cities' newest NCAA Division I program — an evolution that's as much about the school's academic ambitions as its athletic goals.

By the numbers: The multipurpose hockey/basketball/concert venue has a max capacity of just under 5,500.

Friction points: A neighborhood group sued to stop the arena, arguing school and city officials underestimated disruptions the arena will cause for the quiet residential streets surrounding campus.

An appellate court ruled against the neighbors in September. The school says it has plans to mitigate traffic and parking strains.

Our thought bubble: The purpose-built student section reminds us of Penn State's Roar Zone, where students pack steep rows of bench seats at one end of the rink.

Tommie fans replicating that dynamic could make Anderson Arena intimidating for road teams.

What's next: The women's team plays at 2pm. The men play at 7pm.

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St. Thomas' new on-campus arena set to debut

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