"We're super excited," sophomore goalie Trey Augustine said. "It is super historic, and there’s a lot of legacy there, so we were looking forward to being out there."

Throughout history, 43 college hockey games and 41 NHL games have been played outdoors. MSU hockey's last outdoor game was in 2015 at Soldier Field in Chicago, where it fell to the University of Michigan, 4-1. Before 2015, the Spartans were participants in five outdoor games, four of which coming against the Wolverines. 

MSU hosted the first ever regular-season outdoor hockey game in North America at Spartan Stadium in 2001 against Michigan, a game that set an attendance record at the time with 74,544 fans. With the rivals ending in a 3-3 tie, the game became an instant classic and was named "The Cold War." 

"It's definitely special," Augustine said. "I know I haven't played any outdoor games. I'm sure a lot of guys on our team haven't. It's an important game for us, and obviously you want to enjoy them all and put our focus on a hand and win that game."

MSU has previously struggled in outdoor games, sporting a losing record of one win, two losses and two ties throughout five games. The Spartans' only victory came 3-0 against Michigan at the Great Lake Invitational Tournament at Comerica Park in Detroit. 

Outdoor college hockey and NHL games have roots from the early days of the sport, when players skated on frozen ponds and lakes, embracing the simplicity and beauty of "pond hockey." This humble beginning saw hockey enthusiasts capturing the spirit of the game in its purest form. 

As the popularity of hockey grew, the tradition of outdoor games evolved, transitioning from these unusual settings to structured events held in now-iconic venues. By showcasing hockey in diverse and high-profile settings, outdoor games can contribute to the sport's global growth. 

"I think it's huge," Augustine said. "Especially for young kids who are going to be able to see that environment. I think it's huge for growing the game of hockey."