Denver announced Tuesday that a significant gift to DU athletics has been secured that will allow construction to begin this spring on a major locker room renovation for the Pioneers’ hockey program.
The new-and-improved facility will be known as the Miller Hockey Complex in recognition of DU alumnus and Board of Trustee member John Miller, who contributed significantly to the project and has been a longtime supporter of DU athletics.
“John and Sandy Miller are true Pioneers for Denver athletics,” said DU vice chancellor for athletics and recreation Bradley-Doppes in a statement. “Their tremendous support allowed us to build the Miller Academic Success Center four years ago. This center has had a major impact in DU graduating 95% of our student-athletes. The Miller family’s new gift allows us to break ground on what will be one of the finest hockey locker rooms in the country – not only aesthetically, but also for our training and coaching needs. The Miller Hockey Complex will ensure that DU Hockey continues to attract the best and brightest student-athletes in the world.”
In addition to offering student-athletes an expanded, customized locker area, a new-and-improved players’ lounge will include several first-rate amenities such as a nutrition station, study area, audio/video terminals and enhanced technological elements. The Miller Hockey Complex will feature historical elements showcasing the rich tradition of Denver hockey, including a Wall of Fame that will highlight great moments and individuals from throughout the program’s illustrious history.
“The combination of academic and athletic success at the University of Denver is unparalleled nationwide,” added Miller. “We, as alumni, must continue to support our student-athletes in both academic programs and athletic facilities. My family and I are pleased to support the Hockey Complex project as it further demonstrates the University of Denver’s commitment to excellence.”
The Miller Hockey Complex will feature an expanded athletic training area that will include state-of-the-art hydrotherapy pools while the overall size of the locker area will be almost doubled, from 3,800 square feet to over 7,000. More than 140 total donors contributed to the funding of this project, including 70 former DU hockey players.
“As a DU administrator – but particularly as a former coach and Denver hockey alumnus – it is gratifying to see the generous support for the remodel of our locker room,” said DU deputy director of athletics Ron Grahame. “It speaks to the integrity and respect of all who have passed through the doors to continue building the long-standing legacy of success we’ve enjoyed. To those who have supported the Pioneers from the stands and have helped with the locker room project, we salute you for continuing to be a big part of growing the university’s commitment to icing the best college hockey program in the country.”
Denver’s current locker room was completed in 1999, the same year Magness Arena as well as the Daniel Ritchie Center opened. The construction of the Miller Hockey Complex will be documented this summer via social media as well as on DenverPioneers.com.
“We’re extremely excited to be announcing this locker room renovation,” noted Denver coach Jim Montgomery. “We’re very grateful to the generous donors who’ve made this dream a reality – particularly John Miller without whom we wouldn’t be making this announcement. With the Miller Hockey Complex, DU hockey will maintain its leadership among the nation’s elite programs for years to come and we can’t wait to see the final product later this year.”
