A New Home for Wisconsin’s Premier Hockey Showcase
The Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Association (WIAA) has confirmed that the 2027 boys and girls state hockey championships will shift from the existing LEGACY 20 Arena in Middleton to the newly constructed LEGACY20 Arena at DeForest Yards, located in the northern suburbs of Madison. The move, part of a three‑year agreement that runs through the 2029 tournament cycle, is intended to give teams and spectators a modern, purpose‑built facility.
The new arena, still rising behind the DeForest Yards development, is designed to accommodate up to 3,000 fans. Its state‑of‑the‑art sound and lighting systems, combined with premium seating and dedicated suites, aim to elevate the overall experience for players, coaches, and media alike.
Construction crews expect to complete the venue this summer, just in time for the March 4‑6, 2027 championship dates. In addition to spectator seating, the complex will house suites for broadcasting, administrative functions, and partnership groups, creating a hub for sponsors and local businesses.
WIAA officials emphasized that the relocation reflects a strategic effort to provide a world‑class environment that meets the growing expectations of high‑level high school hockey. The agreement also secures a stable venue for the tournaments through 2029, ensuring continuity for participating schools and their fan bases.
The move underscores the organization’s commitment to enhancing the infrastructure surrounding Wisconsin’s youth hockey programs, offering a modern backdrop for the state’s most promising athletes as they compete for championship titles.