A historic rink returns to Waldo Stadium
Tickets are now on sale for a historic outdoor hockey showdown that will transform Waldo Stadium in Kalamazoo, Michigan, into a winter arena on January 30. The event will pit the Western Michigan Broncos against the University of Michigan Wolverines in the first ever outdoor contest at the venerable football venue, a celebration of Western Michigan University, the city of Kalamazoo and the sport of college hockey.
The game marks a milestone for the Broncos, who will wear special jerseys for the occasion, and it also provides a unique opportunity for students. Western Michigan students can claim tickets through the standard student ticket process, with the claim window opening on the first day of classes for the Spring 2027 semester, ensuring that the campus community can secure seats early.
The temporary rink will remain in place through February 7, giving fans a chance to experience the open‑air atmosphere for nearly two weeks. During that period, WMU Athletics plans to host a series of public events surrounding the rink experience, ranging from fan festivals to youth hockey clinics, adding a festive backdrop to the stadium’s historic footprint.
Groups and individuals interested in renting ice time can contact Nick Owens, while fans seeking premium seating options can reach out to Matt Johnson. Both contacts underscore the university’s effort to involve the broader community in the event’s logistics and to offer exclusive experiences for donors and supporters.
Further details about open skates, special promotions and additional programming will be announced in the coming weeks, with updates posted on WMUBroncos.com and the university’s athletic social‑media channels. The event promises to blend sport, tradition and community spirit in a way that only an outdoor college hockey game can.