Penn State Hosts Historic Outdoor Hockey Doubleheader at Beaver Stadium

In a groundbreaking announcement that’s already buzzing in the college sports world, Penn State University’s Beaver Stadium will host its first-ever ice hockey game. This outdoor doubleheader, set for January 31, 2026, will showcase both the men’s and women’s hockey teams.

The men’s team is gearing up to face Michigan State. Meanwhile, the women’s team will take on Robert Morris University.

This move marks a big milestone for Penn State Hockey. It’s bound to deliver an experience fans won’t soon forget.

The Historic Doubleheader at Beaver Stadium

Penn State’s decision to host an outdoor hockey doubleheader at Beaver Stadium really shows how much the hockey programs have grown. The men’s team gets to battle Michigan State, a tough rival and two-time defending Big 10 tournament champion.

The women’s team will challenge Robert Morris University, a persistent competitor from the Atlantic Hockey America conference. These matchups highlight the fierce spirit of Penn State hockey and the university’s push to elevate the sport.

Significance for Penn State Hockey

Dr. Patrick Kraft, Penn State’s Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics, couldn’t hide his excitement. He called it a historic moment for Penn State Hockey and the entire community.

Bringing college hockey to Beaver Stadium feels pretty special. Fans from all over the country are likely to pay attention.

For years, hockey fans have dreamed about an outdoor game at Beaver Stadium. Anyone who’s followed the NHL’s outdoor games since 2008 knows the appeal.

Talks of a Flyers vs. Penguins matchup at Beaver Stadium have floated around for ages. This doubleheader nudges that fantasy a little closer to happening.

Beaver Stadium’s Transformation

Beaver Stadium, famous for holding over 106,000 fans, is getting a $700 million facelift. The huge renovation, wrapping up in 2027, aims to make sure the stadium stays among the best for sports events.

The current NHL outdoor game attendance record sits at 105,491, set at the 2014 Winter Classic in Michigan Stadium. With its size, Beaver Stadium could easily shatter that mark and set a new standard for outdoor hockey.

NHL’s Interest in Beaver Stadium

The NHL has been eyeing Beaver Stadium for a marquee outdoor game, especially a Penguins vs. Flyers showdown. Steve Mayer, who heads NHL Content and Events, said the league wants to look into hosting once the stadium’s upgrades finish.

There’s no official commitment yet, but the idea has plenty of fans talking. Wouldn’t that be something?

Success of Penn State’s Hockey Programs

Penn State jumped into NCAA Division I college hockey in the 2012-13 season, and both the men’s and women’s teams have made waves. The men have reached the NCAA tournament four times since 2017 and broke into the Frozen Four last season, just missing the finals against Boston University.

The women’s team has impressed too, winning their conference tournament and making the NCAA tournament three years in a row.

Gavin McKenna’s Impact

One of the biggest stories for Penn State men’s hockey is the arrival of 17-year-old phenom Gavin McKenna. He’s the consensus top pick for next summer’s NHL draft and shocked everyone by leaving Canadian junior hockey for Penn State.

McKenna’s NIL deal reportedly sits around $700,000, which shows just how much top college athletes can earn now. That’s a game-changer for the program and for college hockey in general.

Penn State and Michigan State have a rivalry that’s only getting hotter. Michigan State was the runner-up for McKenna’s commitment, offering between $200,000 and $300,000 in NIL money.

That extra edge is sure to make the upcoming game even more intense for everyone watching.