The long needed, previously started, and since paused renovation and expansion project to Munn Ice Arena has received another substantial donation. The Michigan State athletic office announced yesterday that program alumnus Gary Harpell and his wife Joanne have contributed $1.5 million toward the project.
A 1982 graduate, Gary Harpell played on the Michigan State hockey team from 1978-1982, first making the team as a walk-on. Harpell was with the team in the final season under Amo Bessone and the initial years of legendary head coach Ron Mason. He was also there when the Spartans played their final seasons in the Western Collegiate Hockey Association and made the switch to the Central Collegiate Hockey Association (CCHA) in 1981.