SPRINGFIELD, Mass. - The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) announced today that the MassMutual Center, in conjunction with American International College and the University of Massachusetts, has been selected to host a 2027 NCAA Division I Men's Ice Hockey Regional. This will mark the second time the MassMutual Center has served as a regional host with the first coming in 2024.

"We are incredibly excited to once again partner with the MassMutual Center and American International College to host an NCAA Regional in Springfield," said Massachusetts Director of Athletics Ryan Bamford. "We had the privilege to serve as co-hosts of the Springfield Regional this past season and our fans provided a great home-ice environment for our team to compete in. We also look forward to building upon our commitment to our western Massachusetts community in 2027 and adding to our economic impact of $1.2 million from the most recent regional." 

The regional will feature four teams competing in two first round games, with the winners advancing to the regional final. The winner of the regional final will advance to the 2027 Frozen Four, which will be held at the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C.

"We're thrilled to welcome the NCAA Hockey Tournament back to Springfield," said AIC Senior Associate Athletic Director Michael Lavato. "Our first experience was a tremendous success, highlighted by three thrilling games. UMass and the MassMutual Center have been exceptional partners every step of the way, and we're excited to reignite the excitement and bring the NCAA Tournament back to the City of Springfield."

In addition to Springfield, Mass., Bridgeport, Conn. (Total Mortgage Arena), Loveland, Colo. (Blue Arena) and Fargo, N.D. (SCHEELS Arena) were also selected as regional sites in 2027.

"Winning the bid to host the 2027 NCAA Division I Men's Ice Hockey Regional at the MassMutual Center is a tremendous honor for our city," said MassMutual Center General Manager Sean Dolan. "Following the success of the 2024 tournament, which generated $1.2 million in economic impact, we look forward to showcasing Springfield's vibrancy once again. This event will enhance our community's profile and provide an unforgettable experience for athletes and fans. We are excited to partner with the University of Massachusetts and American International College to make this a memorable event for all."

Last season at the MassMutual Center, eventual national champion and third overall seed Denver outlasted UMass in double overtime, 2-1 and Cornell downed Maine, 3-1, in the other first round game. In the regional final, the Pioneers then edged Cornell, 2-1, to advance to the Frozen Four.

"The Massachusetts Convention Center Authority is thrilled to welcome the NCAA Men's Ice Hockey Regionals back to Springfield!" MCCA Interim Executive Director Gloria Larson said. "This honor reflects the hard work and commitment of the MMC staff in providing a world-class venue. We look forward to following this exciting event and wish great success to all the teams and student-athletes as they compete for a National Championship!"