RPI's Field House ( official name is actually something else ) I had the pleasure of recently catching a game at this rink. Being only familiar with the Hockey East rinks, it was nice for a change of pace. I'm not saying this rink is fabulous or anything, but it certainly is something to mention. It had some characteristics that make it unlike anything else I've ever seen. First of all, the rink is sunk like 3 feet into the floor. Therefore, the first row seats don't normally have the usual fifteen feet of hidden ice surface along the near boards. It adds a "balcony-view" enhancement to every seat in the house! Fantastic idea!!! Secondly, the ceiling over the rink is several feet higher than over the stands. Seperate lighting systems shine directly down from both areas. As soon as the puck is dropped to start a period, the lights over the seats are shut off, thereby putting the ice surface in a "highlighted" mode. Very nice effect! Lastly, the rink is old! It has character. The time clocks appear to be circa 1940's. It has the aura comparable to being in one of the NHL's original 6 rinks before renovations took place in the 70's and 80's. Maybe this rink's life is near it's end .... but I'd vote to have more rinks adopt the style used here. -Paul G. Go Riverhawks! Umass-Lowell #1 HOCKEY-L is for discussion of college ice hockey; send information to [log in to unmask], The College Hockey Information List.