File. BGSU head coach Ty Eigner looks on during a game.
J.D. Pooley | Sentinel-Tribune
Tonight’s exhibition hockey game between Bowling Green State University and Adrian at the Slater Family Ice Arena has been canceled due to injuries.
The Falcons did not have an extra skater in their last game with Western Michigan, indicating there were not enough healthy players to skate.
Eigner said his players needed rest after playing six games in 14 days.
“We were banged up,” said BGSU coach Ty Eigner. “When we practiced, we had 11 skaters out of our usual 28.”
Eigner reached out Adrian coach Adam Krug to explain the situation.
“I told him about our injury situation and he said he understood,” Eigner said. “It’s unfortunate because they were excited about it.”
Although there is no Falcon hockey this week, Eigner is still preparing his team for the series against Minnesota State on Oct. 28 and 29.
The No. 2-ranked Mavericks will prove to be a difficult opponent for Bowling Green, as Minnesota State’s heavy offense led them to the Frozen Four last season.
Eigner said that the key to success in this series will be defense and healthy bodies.
“Our focus moving forward here is trying to get guys healthy and playing better in our own defensive zone,” he said.
The Falcons’ defensive zone has been a focus since the start of the season. Zone entry issues and uneven shot counts have forced the players to commit to a more defensive game.
This tactic was seen in the last series against Western Michigan. The Broncos had 30-plus shots in each game to keep the BG netminders busy.
Eigner also commented on the $5.75 million upgrade coming to the Slater Family Ice Arena.
The news on renovations for the arena was dropped on Oct. 14. Construction will start in the spring to improve the existing building systems, life safety, accessibility and daily function, including upgrades to the locker rooms and restroom renovations.
It also includes the creation of a new mezzanine on the south end of the main rink to include private suites, concessions, a club room, additional spectator seating, and the addition of a 1,000-square-foot lobby at the west main entrance.
The newly renovated main entrance will highlight achievements, creating opportunities for trophy displays and encourage future growth.
Although the “Madhouse on Mercer” holds 50-plus years of history, Eigner said that the renovations will enhance the arena for both players and fans.
“It’ll really complete the building for in-game experience for our fans, players and other people that use the facility,” he said. “For what is already a really good atmosphere, we think it’ll enhance in even more. We also want to thank Scott Slater and his family for the gift that made this project possible.”
The arena opened in 1967 and was named for the Slater Family in 2017, after receiving a series of facility upgrades beginning in 2008.
Moody Nolan, Columbus, will lead the next phase in the renovation of the arena.
