Augustana University made a historic decision in 2021 to expand its athletic program with Division I men’s hockey — a first in the state of South Dakota. When creating the program from the ground up, several pieces needed to fall into place quickly, including hiring coaching staff, securing conference affiliation and erecting a new home barn. The design for Midco Arena introduced athletes and fans to a state-of-the-art hockey facility housing 3,100 seats, 12 private suites, a center-ice club hospitality space, and the Skol Shop, a team store for Vikings athletic apparel.
A collegiate field house design reminiscent of generations past inspired the development of the arena’s identity. Contributing to an authentic presence on campus was its use of masonry that related back to campus architecture, its celebration of day-lit opportunities, and its distinctive barrel-vaulted form. With an open concourse design and an extroverted presence, fans step into the arena and are instantly immersed in the action on the ice.
Beyond hockey, Midco Arena is a multi-use hub for Augustana Athletics, including a new athletics administration and coaching office suite, an athletics department strength and conditioning center, a sports medicine facility, and an equitably designed team suite for women’s soccer. Midco Arena bridges campus administration and athletics boundaries, bringing a main entry and external event plaza that provides pre- and postgame event space for both campus and community. Located at the heart of campus, Midco Arena is an impressive gateway to the university, elevating the fan experience while enhancing athletes’ performance, nutrition and overall wellbeing.
Architect of Record
JLG Architects
Minneapolis, Minn.
Suppliers
Redmond Senior & Community Center
