Significant upgrades are in store for Walter Brown Arena, the historic rink that is home to Boston University’s women’s hockey program, BU Athletics announced in a press release Wednesday afternoon.
According to the release, the renovations to Walter Brown will be “the most significant renovation of an existing facility in BU Athletics history.” The updates will take place in 2024.
Upgrades will include a center-hung video scoreboard, a new locker room, team lounge and coaches offices. In its current state, the rink features a metal scoreboard without a video screen.
BU alumni Larry and Debi DePaulis made a “sizable investment” to the project, per the release.
Walter Brown has been a cornerstone of BU hockey for more than 50 years — the arena was home to the men’s hockey team from 1970 until Agganis Arena opened in 2005. It has been home to the women’s hockey team since the program joined the varsity ranks in 2005-06.
But the facility is worn and outdated, and it has fallen behind the standard for a collegiate women’s hockey rink — especially when compared to other facilities around Hockey East and New England.
“I am thrilled to announce these significant gifts to BU Athletics and the two facility projects,” said BU Director of Athletics Drew Marrochello in a statement. “These gifts demonstrate a commitment to excellence and a desire to enhance and elevate the experience that our student-athletes have on campus.”
Very pleased to learn that WB is going to continue its historic tradition, but with modern accoutrements and infrastructures. Moreover, that the Women’s team, and the teams that will follow, are going to be even more properly recognized and provided for. Many thanks to Larry and Debi DePaulis! PSD