The Middlesex Islanders LLC and Merrimack College have signed an agreement to explore the expansion of the Volpe Athletic Center that will significantly improve facilities in the areas of health sciences and athletics.    The project would create a 10,000 square foot health science and sports medicine facility, an additional full-sized ice hockey rink, a mini-rink, a new 5,000 square foot weight room, an off-ice shooting area, new locker rooms and new team rooms.  It may also include space for a pro shop, expanded concessions and additional conference and meeting rooms.  

 

“This Project will represent the achievement of an important milestone for the Middlesex Islanders”, said Richard Gallant, Program Director.  “The establishment of a home rink on the campus of Merrimack College will allow us to develop a comprehensive on and off ice student athlete program for all our participants which will further identify us as one of the premier hockey organizations in New England.”

 

“The expansion of the Volpe Athletic Center is the latest example of Merrimack’s commitment to making strategic investments that serve students’ needs and support our goals for advancing the College,” said Dr. Christopher E. Hopey, president, Merrimack College. “What’s more, this project gives us a unique opportunity to partner with and have a beneficial impact on our local community.”

 

The Project will be completed in two phases with the sports and medicine facility targeted to be completed first and the new rinks by August 2012.  

 

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