The Taffy Abel Arena, home of Lake Superior State hockey in Sault Ste. Marie, is set to receive renovations this summer ahead of the Lakers’ 60th anniversary season. (Photo courtesy of Lake Superior State University)

SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. — At a special meeting of the Lake Superior State University Board of Trustees on April 17, 2026, major renovations of the James C. Norris Physical Education Center were approved. 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.

The university announced the changes would “significantly improve the home of Laker Hockey as well as remain a pride point for the Eastern Upper Peninsula, including youth hockey, adult hockey, figure skating, and LSSU’s three ACHA hockey 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 university announced that over $10 million, utilizing significant new donor support, is committed to facility updates, the enhancements of campus spaces, and the creation of a more engaging experience for students, faculty, and visitors alike.

“The renovation of Taffy Abel is long overdue and a huge step forward for the university, athletics, and our surrounding community,” Lake Superior State University President Dr. David Travis said. “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.”

This significant piece of Lake Superior State’s campus renovation project reflects the importance of Laker Athletics as a community builder for the Sault Sainte Marie sister cities and beyond.

“Taffy Abel Arena is the heart of Laker Hockey,” said Lake Superior State hockey coach, and former Michigan Tech assistant coach, Damon Whitten. “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.”

Arena renovations are expected to be completed early in the fall semester ahead of the puck drop on the 60th anniversary season of Lake Superior State hockey.