Grand Rapids Reporter

Ferris State University's men's ice hockey team will compete in the Great Lakes Invitational (GLI) for the second consecutive year. The 57th annual tournament, one of the oldest college hockey events in the United States, will be held at Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids on December 28-29, 2023. Ferris State is set to face Michigan State on the opening day.

The tournament will also feature Michigan Tech and Alaska. Ferris State has been invited to participate again in 2025. "We're thrilled to be invited back to the GLI and have another opportunity to compete in front of our alumni, fans and friends right here in West Michigan," said FSU head coach Bob Daniels.

Van Andel Arena, along with Michigan Technological University and Michigan State University, announced a four-year extension for hosting the GLI in Grand Rapids. Suzanne Sanregret, Vice President for Athletics and Recreation at Michigan Tech, expressed excitement about continuing this partnership: "The GLI is one of the best college hockey tournaments in the country."

Richard MacKeigan from ASM Global stated that Van Andel Arena aims to create an annual tradition for both local and visiting hockey fans: "We hope to build on the success of last year's event."

Michigan Tech has claimed victory at the GLI 11 times, while Michigan State has won it 12 times. Ferris State was runner-up last year, marking its best performance so far. Alaska will make its debut appearance this year.

Tickets for this year's tournament will be available starting September through VanAndelArena.com.

The GLI was first played in 1965 after being conceived by Michigan Tech coach John MacInnes and others. It has been hosted at various venues over the years including Olympia Stadium and Joe Louis Arena.