When construction crews put the final brick on Yost Ice Arena in 1923, they were erecting more than a sports venue; they were creating a multi‑purpose field house that would host basketball, indoor track, football and baseball for the next half‑century. The $563,168 price tag was a substantial investment, but the facility quickly proved its worth as a hub for Michigan’s athletic programs.
From Track Stars to Hockey Legends
The arena’s early years featured moments that would become part of university lore. In 1925, sprinter William DeHart Hubbard tied a world record in the 60‑yard dash at the inaugural indoor track meet, showcasing the building’s versatility. Decades later, basketball sensation Cazzie Russell led the Wolverines to three straight Big Ten titles (1964‑1966), etching his name into Yost’s basketball legacy before the final game on March 11, 1967, a loss to Iowa.
Hockey’s relationship with Yost began in earnest in 1973, when the team moved in after the basketball and football squads relocated to newer facilities. The inaugural victory over Waterloo Lutheran on November 2, 1973, marked the start of a new era, and the rink soon earned the moniker "Red Berenson Rink" in 2017, honoring the coach who steered the program for 33 seasons and captured 21 conference championships.
Over the years, Yost has undergone a series of renovations — 1973, 1992, 1996, 2001, 2006 and a major $14 million overhaul in 2012 — that have modernized seating, accessibility and overall fan experience while preserving its historic charm. Capacity has slipped from an original 8,100 to roughly 5,800, yet the arena still draws crowds that regularly test its limits, exemplified by the record attendance of 8,411 for the Michigan‑Michigan State showdown on January 29, 1988.
Beyond the numbers, Yost’s enduring appeal lies in its blend of tradition and resilience. The venue’s age and continual evolution have turned it into a living museum of collegiate sport, a place where generations of athletes, coaches and fans have shared unforgettable moments. As the Michigan Wolverines continue to call Yost home, the arena stands as a testament to over a century of athletic passion and institutional identity.