The 3M Arena at Mariucci is a collegiate ice‑hockey facility located on the campus of the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States. It serves as the home arena for the Minnesota Golden Gophers men's and women's ice‑hockey teams, which compete in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I and the Big Ten Conference.
History and Naming
The arena originally opened in 1993 as Mariucci Arena, named after John Mariucci, a former Minnesota player, coach, and athletic director who was instrumental in developing the university’s hockey program. In 2017, the naming rights were acquired by 3M, a multinational conglomerate headquartered in Minnesota, resulting in the official designation “3M Arena at Mariucci.” The agreement was part of a broader partnership that included financial support for facility upgrades.
Facility Features
- Seating Capacity: Approximately 10,000 spectators, including standard seating, club seats, and standing-room areas.
- Ice Surface: Standard North American rink dimensions (200 ft × 85 ft).
- Amenities: Concourse amenities include concession stands, merchandise retail space, a Hall of Fame area honoring Minnesota hockey history, and a training facility equipped with weight‑lifting and conditioning equipment.
Renovations
A significant renovation project was completed in 2021–2022, funded in part by the 3M partnership and university contributions. Updates included the replacement of the original arena roof, installation of a new HVAC system, enhancements to locker rooms, upgrades to the video board and sound system, and improvements to accessibility in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Usage
While primarily used for university hockey contests, the arena also hosts occasional non‑collegiate events such as high‑school hockey tournaments, community skating sessions, and private functions. The venue is integral to the university’s athletic infrastructure and contributes to the local sports culture of Minneapolis.
Ownership and Management
The arena is owned by the University of Minnesota and operated by the university’s Athletic Department. The naming‑rights agreement with 3M does not affect ownership but provides branding visibility for the sponsor throughout the facility and during televised broadcasts.
Location
3M Arena at Mariucci is situated on the west side of the university’s East Bank campus, adjacent to other athletic facilities including Williams Arena and the University of Minnesota's recreation center. The site is accessible via public transportation and pedestrian pathways linking it to the campus core.
Significance
The arena is considered a landmark in collegiate hockey, reflecting the University of Minnesota’s long-standing tradition and success in the sport. It has hosted numerous NCAA tournament games and is regularly ranked among the premier college hockey venues in the United States.