Capacity: 3,504
Teams: United States men’s national under-18 ice hockey team, United States men’s national under-17 ice hockey team
Opened: 10 September 1996
Owner: USA Hockey
Construction cost: $22 million
The USA Hockey Arena, located in Plymouth Township, Michigan, is a multi-purpose arena that first opened its doors in 1996. Initially named the Compuware Sports Arena, the venue’s name was modified to Compuware Arena on September 11, 2007, to enhance its marketability for non-sporting events. In 2015, the arena was acquired by the USA Hockey Foundation and subsequently renamed USA Hockey Arena.
The conception of the arena was spearheaded by Peter Karmanos, President of Compuware and owner of the Detroit Whalers. Following the 1995–96 season, during which the Whalers played at Oak Park Ice Arena and The Palace of Auburn Hills, Karmanos arranged for the construction of a new home for the team. The Compuware Sports Arena was built in just six months, ready for the Whalers’ 1996–97 season. The team, initially known as the Detroit Whalers, was renamed the Plymouth Whalers in the 1997–98 season after moving to Plymouth Township.
The USA Hockey Arena complex boasts two arenas. The main arena, which served as the home for the Whalers’ games, features an NHL-size rink with seating for approximately 4,000 spectators. The second arena offers an Olympic-size ice surface with 800 seats located on one side. Both arenas share concession stands that can serve patrons in both venues simultaneously, ensuring efficient service.
Over the years, the arena has been home to various sports teams and events. It was the base for the Detroit Ignition, a Major Indoor Soccer League / XSL team, and the Compuware Ambassadors minor hockey program. Additionally, the arena hosted the Detroit Rockers of the National Professional Soccer League during their last season in 2000-2001. On October 22, 2006, the arena was the venue for the TNA Bound for Glory 2006 pay-per-view event.
The USA Hockey Arena is a hub for numerous significant events. It annually hosts the MHSAA high school state championships for boys’ ice hockey. The venue also serves as the site for commencement ceremonies for several high schools, including Adlai E. Stevenson High School and Northville High School.
In November 2014, it was announced that USA Hockey had reached an agreement to take over Compuware Arena by mid-2015. The goal was to relocate the National Team Development Program from Ann Arbor to Plymouth and use the facility to showcase other USA Hockey programs and international events. While the Plymouth Whalers were initially expected to remain as tenants, they were sold in January 2015 and relocated to Flint.
A notable event hosted at the arena was the 2017 IIHF Women’s World Championship in April 2017, further cementing its status as a premier venue for hockey and other events.