Western Michigan Will Begin Final Season at Lawson Arena

The No. 8-ranked Broncos play their final home games at the venue before moving to the Kalamazoo Event Center.

Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Hockey

Western Michigan Will Begin Final Season at Lawson Arena

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Western Michigan University hockey prepares for its final season at Lawson Arena, which has served as the home for the program since it opened in November 1975. The team, which is currently ranked No. 8 nationally, opens its season this Thursday against Ferris State.

Why it matters

The program is transitioning to the new Kalamazoo Event Center next year, marking the end of a multi-decade era for Western Michigan hockey at its current home. The university is honoring the legacy of the arena through special events and promotions throughout the season.

Western Michigan enters the season ranked No. 8 nationally after adding 11 players during the off-season. Goaltender Quentin Miller returns with a 2.39 goals-against average and a .916 save percentage over 25 appearances.

The players

Western Michigan University

This public research university in Kalamazoo maintains a nationally ranked Division I men's ice hockey program.

Harry W. Lawson

He is the individual credited with launching the club hockey team at the university in 1959.

Quentin Miller

He is a goaltender for the Broncos who recorded a .916 save percentage in 25 appearances last season.

Adam Benak

He is a key offensive contributor who recorded 77 points, including 28 goals and 49 assists, during the previous season.

The details

Following a 5-1 exhibition victory over Western Ontario, the Broncos look to build on a 2025 campaign that saw the program capture its first national championship. The team will maintain a focus on its defensive corps before moving to the Kalamazoo Event Center next year.

1959: Harry W. Lawson launched the club hockey team.
November 1975: Lawson Arena opened for play.
2025: The program won its first national championship.
Thursday: Western Michigan plays its season opener against Ferris State.
January 30: Western Michigan plays Michigan at Waldo Stadium.

Season Trajectory

Coming off its first national championship in 2025, Western Michigan aims to solidify its status as a premier program before shifting to the Kalamazoo Event Center. This final campaign at Lawson Arena serves as a bridge between the program's foundation and its future infrastructure.

Fans should monitor the integration of the 11 offseason additions, specifically the seven new forwards, as the team attempts to replicate last season's offensive output. The January 30 matchup at Waldo Stadium represents a unique venue shift for the program's schedule.

The takeaway

The move to the new arena represents a significant upgrade in facility capabilities for the athletic department. Supporters should plan to attend early-season games to participate in the final commemorative events hosted at the historic Lawson venue.