Yale Hockey Arena

The Yale Hockey Arena, officially known as the Ingalls Rink, is a historic ice hockey rink located in New Haven, Connecticut, on the campus of Yale University. The arena has been the home of the Yale Bulldogs men's ice hockey team since its opening in 1959. Designed by architect Eero Saarinen, the Ingalls Rink is renowned for its unique and iconic design, which has made it a beloved landmark in the world of college hockey.
History and Design

The Ingalls Rink was built in 1959, with a construction cost of approximately 1.5 million. The arena was made possible through the generosity of David S. Ingalls, a Yale alumnus and hockey enthusiast, who donated 1 million towards the construction of the rink. The design of the Ingalls Rink is characterized by its distinctive hyperbolic paraboloid roof, which provides a unique and spacious interior. The arena’s design has been praised for its functionality and aesthetics, making it a model for other ice hockey venues. The Ingalls Rink has a seating capacity of approximately 3,500 spectators, providing an intimate and electric atmosphere for hockey games and other events.
Facilities and Amenities
The Ingalls Rink features a state-of-the-art ice rink, with a NHL-sized ice surface measuring 200 feet by 85 feet. The arena is equipped with advanced lighting and sound systems, as well as a video scoreboard and replay system. The Ingalls Rink also features a number of amenities, including a concession stand, ticket office, and locker rooms for the Yale hockey team. In addition, the arena has undergone several renovations over the years, including the installation of a new ice rink and the addition of a weight room and training facilities for the team.
Category | Data |
---|---|
Seating Capacity | 3,500 |
Ice Surface Size | 200 feet x 85 feet |
Construction Cost | $1.5 million |
Year Opened | 1959 |

Yale Bulldogs Hockey Team

The Yale Bulldogs men’s ice hockey team has a long and storied history, dating back to 1896. The team has won numerous championships, including 2 ECAC Hockey Championships and 1 NCAA Championship. The Bulldogs have also produced a number of notable alumni, including NHL players such as Chris Higgins and Ryan Donald. The team is currently a member of the ECAC Hockey conference and competes against other top-ranked teams in the NCAA.
Notable Games and Events
The Ingalls Rink has hosted a number of notable games and events over the years, including NCAA Tournament games and ECAC Hockey Championship games. The arena has also hosted a number of international hockey games, featuring teams from around the world. In addition, the Ingalls Rink has been the site of several benefit games and charity events, raising money and awareness for a variety of causes.
- NCAA Tournament games: 2009, 2011, 2013
- ECAC Hockey Championship games: 2009, 2011, 2013
- International hockey games: 2010, 2012, 2015
- Benefit games: 2011, 2014, 2017
What is the seating capacity of the Ingalls Rink?
+The seating capacity of the Ingalls Rink is approximately 3,500 spectators.
Who designed the Ingalls Rink?
+The Ingalls Rink was designed by architect Eero Saarinen.
What is the size of the ice surface at the Ingalls Rink?
+The ice surface at the Ingalls Rink is NHL-sized, measuring 200 feet by 85 feet.