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UMD hockey excited about new DECC
BY ALI DRAVES
STATESMAN STAFF WRITER
iISSUE: 78/27
The Duluth Entertainment Convention Center (DECC) will receive $38 million for a new arena per the new state bonding bill, according to the UMD Web site. The new arena will be the first update to the original arena, which has been in use since 1966.
This is big news in the Minnesota hockey world, especially for the Bulldogs. “Obviously, I am excited, because it is not everyday that you have a chance to build a new rink,” said head coach Scott Sandelin. “This will also be a great facility for Northeastern Minnesota. The DECC will be able to attract larger shows and performers, which boosts the community. “There are some specific things we are going to look for as a staff that will assist us and our players. The rink will also be more fan friendly, while trying to keep the same atmosphere and character that has been a staple at the DECC for many years.”
Sandelin hopes it to be the second best rink in the league, behind the Ralph Engelstad Arena in North Dakota.
He also has extremely high hopes for next year’s team, as the DECC will be bring many new advantages for the Bulldogs. “For one, it will help out with recruiting,” he said. “If you look at some of the arenas in our league, they are newer and have better facilities in some aspects. Recruits are looking for those new amenities and their decision to play college hockey.”
And although he is excited for the new arena, the old DECC will still be missed. “Anytime you move into something new, you will always miss some things,” he said. “The atmosphere and character is something that is hard to replace in a building; and hopefully, it will be carried over into the new building.”
Shannon Miller, UMD Women’s hockey coach, could not be reached for comment.
