Saints Open New Era in Appleton with Win Over Clarkson

Last Saturday was an exciting day in Canton! The Women’s Hockey Team took on the Clarkson Golden Knights in the newly renovated Appleton Arena with 1,363 fans in attendance and came out on top with a 1-0 win. It was their first game this season that was played in Appleton after playing eight home games at SUNY Canton while the arena was being updated. 

Jacquie Diffley ‘20 scored the winning goal and Lucy Morgan ‘23 made 25 saves to earn the shutout. It was Diffley’s second goal of the season and her first game-winning goal. It was also Morgan’s third shutout of the season, and the first shutout in Appleton Arena for the Saints against Clarkson. It could not have been a more perfect start to Appleton’s new life, a rivalry win against the Clarkson Golden Knights. 

The fans in attendance were the first to see the renovations at Appleton which include new video boards, a new lobby, a video production room, and new concession stands. I attended the game and had the opportunity to watch from the new President’s Box. The arena definitely feels more modern with the addition of the video boards, which also provide fans with instant replays. The arena seems brighter with new lights, making it easier to follow the puck on the ice. The concourses have also been widened, which allow for fans to walk around the arena easily. While these modern additions have brought this arena to the 21st century, the tradition of Appleton still remains. 

A win at Appleton was the perfect way to open the new arena. The Women’s Hockey Team will take on Dartmouth and Harvard at Appleton this weekend. The Men’s Hockey Team will play their first home game at Appleton on January 31 when they take on Brown, and will play again on February 1 versus Yale. Make sure to go check out the renovated arena and cheer on the Saints!