A chance to play a game on an outdoor rink is a great opportunity for Lancer men’s hockey players, says head coach Kevin Hamlin. The team will face off against the Western Mustangs at Detroit’s Comerica Park on Monday, December 16, as part of the Hockeytown Winter Festival.

“As a hockey program, this fulfills our mission statement to give our players lifetime experiences that will help them grow as leaders in the community,” Hamlin said. “Having a league game outdoors against our rivals places an even greater importance on the game, and our players wouldn’t want it any other way.”

More than 250,000 people are expected to descend on the ballpark for the festival, which will see the Tigers’ infield turned into a hockey rink. The festival will feature games between teams representing every level of hockey—besides the Ontario University Association contest, it will include American Hockey League, Ontario Hockey League, NCAA, high school and youth leagues—leading up to a January 1 game between the Detroit Red Wings and Toronto Maple Leafs.

UWindsor athletic director Mike Havey said his department is “thrilled” to be able to participate in this unique outdoor sporting event.

“This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for our student-athletes and something I know they’ll remember forever,” he said.

Admission to the Lancers game is $15. Tickets are on sale now in the athletic department event office; phone Elisa Mitton at 519-253-3000, ext. 2447.