The University of Minnesota has announced a naming-rights partnership deal with multinational conglomerate corporation 3M for its Mariucci Arena.
The hockey facility will now be known as 3M Arena at Mariucci in an effort to keep an element of the venue’s historic name.
The deal is part of 14-year, $11.2m (€9.8m/£8.7m) sponsorship of Gopher Athletics, expanding on the company’s 90-year relationship with the University.
Previously, 3M has invested in the Athletes Village, through which it expanded and modernised the academic centre, added the department’s first nutrition education and dining space, as well as a leadership centre devoted to helping student-athletes develop career-based skills.
Athletics director Mark Coyle, said: “This sponsorship will have a broad impact across our athletics department by supporting construction of our new Athletes Village.
“By partnering with us, 3M is investing in every current and future Gopher student-athlete, the future leaders of our state. 3M will be a big reason why each of those young men and women have a first-class experience at Minnesota that prepares them for the rest of their lives.”
Paul Acito, vice president and chief marketing officer at 3M, said: “3M and the University are long-time collaborators, and alumni contribute greatly to our success, innovation and growth.
“Our sponsorship of Mariucci Arena and Golden Gopher Hockey is a tribute to our Minnesota roots, and an opportunity to support a great Minnesota tradition alongside a new generation of fans.
“Keeping the Mariucci name on the building is an important element of this agreement.”
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