The $7 Million Ice: 5 Reasons Why John Breslow Ice Hockey Center Is Lincoln, NE's Premier Winter Sports Hub
The John Breslow Ice Hockey Center has cemented its status as the most significant year-round indoor ice arena in Lincoln, Nebraska, offering a comprehensive range of ice sports and recreational programs for the entire community. As of today, December 21, 2025, the facility continues to be a central hub for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) Campus Recreation and a critical training ground for competitive and recreational athletes alike, hosting major events that stretch well into the 2026 calendar year.
Located on the UNL campus, the center is more than just a sheet of ice; it is a vital community asset made possible by a landmark philanthropic donation, providing a world-class venue for everything from beginner skating lessons to high-stakes collegiate hockey tournaments. Its diverse programming ensures that whether you are a first-time skater or a seasoned ice hockey veteran, the Breslow Center has an activity tailored to your skill level and interest.
The Philanthropic Foundation: A Brief Biography of John Breslow and the Center's History
The John Breslow Ice Hockey Center is a testament to the generosity and vision of its namesake, John Breslow, a distinguished graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. The facility’s existence is directly tied to the Breslow family’s commitment to enhancing the university and local community's recreational offerings.
- Full Name: John Breslow Ice Hockey Center
- Location: University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) Campus, Lincoln, NE
- Address: 433 V Street, Lincoln, NE 68508
- Dedication: Dedicated by University of Nebraska graduate John Breslow and his wife, Sonia Breslow.
- Key Donation: The Breslows provided a substantial gift of $7 million to fund the facility.
- Completion Year: The facility was completed and officially opened in 2015.
- Primary Function: Year-round indoor ice arena for ice hockey, figure skating, curling, and public skating.
- Management: Operated in partnership with UNL Campus Recreation.
The center's dedication in 2015 marked a pivotal moment for ice sports in the region, finally providing a state-of-the-art, permanent home for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's club teams and various local ice sports organizations.
Current Programs and Offerings: More Than Just Hockey
While "Ice Hockey Center" is in the name, the facility offers a surprisingly broad spectrum of ice-related activities, catering to all ages, from toddlers taking their first glide to adults joining competitive leagues. The year-round schedule is packed with instructional and recreational opportunities, establishing the center as a true multi-sport venue.
1. Comprehensive Learn to Skate and Learn to Play Programs
One of the most popular offerings is the structured Learn to Skate Program. This program is designed for all ages and skill levels, providing a foundation in fundamental skating techniques. The classes are typically structured with a 30-minute instructional period followed by 15 minutes of supervised practice time, with skate rental conveniently included in the program fee. This is the essential entry point for anyone interested in pursuing figure skating or ice hockey.
For those ready to move from skating to the sport, the Learn to Play Hockey program, often run in collaboration with organizations like the Lincoln Ice Hockey Association (LIHA), provides the next step. These programs focus on stickhandling, passing, shooting, and basic game strategy in a fun, supportive environment.
2. Diverse Hockey Leagues, Clinics, and Tournaments
The Breslow Center is the official home ice for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Cornhuskers Club Hockey Team, which competes in the American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) Division 3. The facility regularly hosts exciting collegiate matchups, including recent games against teams like Drake University and Dordt University.
Beyond the collegiate level, the center supports numerous adult and youth hockey leagues. The Stick & Puck sessions are a vital resource for players to practice individual skills, while the organized leagues, such as the Summer Advanced League, offer competitive gameplay for experienced athletes. These leagues often begin with an evaluation skate and a draft process to ensure balanced teams and competitive play.
3. Public Skating and Unique Ice Events
For the general public and UNL students, the center maintains a robust schedule of Public Events and open skate times. These sessions offer an affordable and fun recreational activity, often featuring special events like the "Glow Big Red" skating night for students, promoting a vibrant campus and community atmosphere. The facility also specifically caters to private events, offering Party packages for birthdays and group gatherings.
Upcoming Major Events and Topical Authority (2025–2026)
To maintain its topical authority and relevance, the John Breslow Ice Hockey Center consistently hosts significant regional and national ice sports competitions, solidifying its role as a premier venue in the Midwest. Looking ahead, the schedule is already filling up with major, high-profile events that draw competitors and spectators from across the state and beyond.
- Collegiate Hockey Schedule: The center is a regular venue for the Nebraska Cornhuskers Hockey schedule, with matchups against regional rivals continuing into the 2025-2026 season. These games are a major draw for the UNL student body and local sports fans.
- Figure Skating Competitions: The facility is a key partner for the Cornhusker State Games, one of Nebraska's largest amateur sports festivals. The center is scheduled to host the Capital City Figure Skating Competition in July 2026, featuring events open to all ages and skill levels. This highlights the center's commitment to figure skating in addition to hockey.
- Curling Events: Historically, the center has been a venue for unique events like the Cornhusker Bonspiel, which fosters friendships and competition among curlers. While specific dates vary, the center remains a key location for regional curling activities.
- Community Awareness Games: The center has a history of hosting special events, such as the annual Husker Hockey Cancer Awareness Game, which uses the sport to raise funds and community consciousness for important causes.
The John Breslow Ice Hockey Center's continued success is built on its state-of-the-art facility, the generous foundation laid by John and Sonia Breslow, and its diverse, year-round programming. From the foundational Learn to Skate classes to the high-stakes action of ACHA D3 Hockey, the center serves as an indispensable resource for ice sports enthusiasts in Lincoln, NE, and the greater Midwest region. Its commitment to hosting major events like the Capital City Figure Skating Competition ensures its calendar remains fresh and its impact on the community continues to grow.
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