This is a view of the Taffy Abel Arena rink during a Lake Superior State hockey game. (Photo courtesy LSSU)

SAULT STE. MARIE — Fellow CCHA and GLIAC member Lake Superior State has announced that more than $6 million has been raised for major renovations to its James C. Norris Physical Education Center.

Most of the work will go for the Taffy Abel Arena that the Lakers hockey team plays in, according to a university news release on Monday. The program will celebrate its 60th anniversary this fall with the renovations expected to be completed before that.

“The expected $6.3 million in donor-funded renovations include replacement of the Taffy Abel Arena ice plant, boards, glass and team benches, as well as modernization of the HVAC system and roof,” according to the release.

The facility is not only used by the LSSU hockey team, but also for youth hockey, adult hockey, figure skating and the university’s three American College Hockey Association programs.

“The work is a part of a series of infrastructure improvements announced by the University in February, designated to better serve students and maintain a vibrant, welcoming environment for decades to come,” the release also states.

More than $10 million, including most in new donor support, is committed to update to LSSU facilities.

“The renovation of Taffy Abel is long overdue and a huge step forward for the university, athletics and our surrounding community,” Lake State President Dr. David Travis said in the release. “It is the first of many changes we will be making to improve the infrastructure of campus to make it a more welcoming, structurally safe and proud place for our students to compete and learn.

“I cannot thank our donors enough for the support they are providing to make this happen.”

“Taffy Abel Arena is the heart of Laker Hockey,” said Lakers head hockey coach Damon Whitten, also in the release. “These upgrades will dramatically enhance the experience for our student-athletes, our fans and everyone who steps into the building, including alumni who built this tradition.

“To enter our 60th anniversary season in a modernized Taffy Abel Arena is incredibly meaningful and speaks to the pride, belief, and momentum surrounding Laker Hockey and Lake Superior State University.”

Story contents based on email received from Lake Superior State University marketing department. Journal Sports Editor Steve Brownlee’s email address is sbrownlee@miningjournal.net.