BERRY EVENTS CENTER

The Berry Events Center, opened in 1999, is a multi-purpose facility located at Northern Michigan University. Named after the John Berry family, who generously donated $2 million towards its construction, the center serves as the home arena for NMU's men's and women's basketball teams, hockey team, and the USOEC short track speedskating squad.

With a seating capacity of 3,800, including 16 luxury boxes, the center offers ample space for spectators. Additionally, there are four concession areas and standing room for 400 fans. When used for hockey, the Berry Events Center boasts an Olympic-sized ice sheet measuring 200' x 100'. For basketball games, a protective flooring is placed over the ice, allowing for an additional 500 seats. The conversion from hockey to basketball configuration is completed efficiently in just five hours.

The Berry Events Center has hosted several prestigious events, including the 2003 ISU World Cup Short Track Speedskating events, where two world records were set. It also served as the venue for the 2006 U.S. Short Track Speedskating Championships, which were the Olympic Trials for the U.S. Team competing at the 2006 Winter Games.

Equipped with locker rooms for each home team and four general-use locker rooms, the center ensures convenient facilities for athletes. Changing areas are located on the lower level of the facility, providing ease of access.

Moreover, the Berry Events Center is designed to host concerts and community events. It features moveable theatrical rigging and lighting, making it suitable for various performances. Over the years, the center has welcomed renowned personalities such as Maya Angelou, Dierks Bentley, Earvin "Magic" Johnson, and Jason Mraz, further adding to its versatility and appeal.