The Robert L. Ewigleben Ice Arena is a 2,493-seat hockey arena in Big Rapids, Michigan. It is home to the Ferris State University Bulldogs ice hockey team of the WCHA. The building is attached the FSU Sports Complex, which also includes Wink Arena, a volleyball court, a studio ice rink, offices, concessions and meeting space. The Ice Arena also hosts the local high school and junior hockey programs. The arena is named for Dr. Robert L. Ewigleben, the former school president who was responsible for the building of the arena as well as the inception of Division I ice hockey at the school in 1979.Its infamous student section is known as the "Dawg Pound," which has been known to find out the names of opposing goalies' mothers, which is used in a "colorful" chant.In March 2008, the Ferris State Board of Trustees approved a $3.3 million renovation project for the arena, which will include a new playing surface, new boards and upgrades to the locker rooms. The renovation was scheduled to be completed by September 2008.When sold out, the arena is among the most difficult in the United States to play in as a visiting team. This is in large part of its die hard fans that are as energetic as the sport itself, as well as its student section and skilled pep band.
