The University of Minnesota women’s club hockey team finished in second place in the Women’s Division 1 ACHA National tournament in Wooster, Ohio. Going into the tournament, Minnesota was ranked fourth, a position that was gained with the help of two successful road trips to Michigan and Massachusetts, where they went 7-1 against some of the top teams in the league. Through these trips they were able to gain exposure in the ACHA and started getting noticed as a heavy competitor for post season play.

All the players came to the University for education most importantly, but wanted to continue playing hockey because of their love of the game. The University is known for its successful hockey program, which has prompted players from around Minnesota to join the team. Twelve out of the 15 players are from cities in Minnesota, while the others are from Madison, Wis., and Dubuque, Iowa.

A four-story addition to St. Cloud State’s National Hockey Center will increase by one-third the size of the 23-year-old facility, paving the way in late 2012 for its expanded use as a regional events center.

The $14.7 million construction project beginning this spring will be substantially complete this fall and is the first of more than $30 million in planned enhancements. 50,000 square-feet will be added to the south side of the building and 20,000 square-feet of existing space will be remodeled, according to Steve Ludwig, vice president of administrative affairs. Future work will complete the renovation of team locker rooms and training space, expand suites on the north side, add fan amenities, and further improve the technical and acoustic capabilities of the arena.