Hey everyone, I’ve got some awesome news to share with you! Neumann University and Ed Snider Youth Hockey are teaming up to build a brand new ice hockey complex right on the Neumann campus in Aston Township. This is going to be a game-changer for both the university and the youth hockey program.
The plan is to construct the state-of-the-art Ed Snider Ice Arena, which will not only provide top-notch facilities for hockey but also expand the educational programs for under-resourced youth. And guess what? The project is expected to cost over $30 million! That’s a whole lot of ice!
Neumann University has received a massive $15 million challenge grant from Ed Snider Youth Hockey to support the construction of the arena. And here’s the exciting part: once the university matches the fundraising challenge, the Snider gift will be the largest donation they’ve ever received. Talk about a win-win situation!
The president of Neumann University, Dr. Christopher Domes, couldn’t contain his excitement. He said, “We are absolutely thrilled to partner with Ed Snider Youth Hockey, one of the most respected organizations in the country. This collaboration will not only transform our campus but also create incredible opportunities for underserved youth in our area. It’s a win for everyone involved!”
Scott Tharp, the president and CEO of Snider, shared the same enthusiasm. He explained that Ed Snider’s vision was to use hockey as a way to teach important life lessons to young people. The partnership with Neumann University aligns perfectly with this goal, as both organizations are dedicated to promoting health, wellness, and leadership among students.
So, what can we expect from this fantastic ice hockey complex? Well, get ready for two top-notch hockey rinks, with seating for 750 people in one rink and 300 in the other. That’s a lot of cheering fans! The complex will also feature two classrooms for Snider, a spacious lobby, 10 team locker rooms, training and exam areas, skate rental, a catering kitchen, and even laundry facilities. It’s going to be a one-stop-shop for all things hockey!
But here’s the best part: the arena won’t just benefit the university and the youth hockey program. It will also be a community resource, available for use by hockey clubs and organizations in the region. This means more ice time for everyone and a boost to the local economy. Win-win!
To make this dream a reality, Neumann University recently received a $1 million grant from the state. And there’s even more good news on the horizon. State Representative Leanne Krueger believes that additional funds of up to $9 million may be available in upcoming grants. That’s a whole lot of support for this exciting project!
Construction of the arena is set to begin no later than the spring of 2026. In the meantime, Neumann University will continue raising funds to make this vision come true.
This partnership between Neumann University and Ed Snider Youth Hockey is truly a match made in hockey heaven. It’s a testament to the power of sports and education coming together to create incredible opportunities for young people. We can’t wait to see the impact this ice hockey complex will have on the community and the lives of under-resourced youth. Get ready for some exciting times ahead!