University of St. Thomas Athletics
St. Thomas Athletics partners with St. Paul Capitals Youth Hockey
9/18/2025 11:23:00 AM | Men's Hockey, Women's Hockey, Lee & Penny Anderson Arena
ST. PAUL, MINN. – The University of St. Thomas athletics is proud to announce a new partnership within the St. Paul and Twin Cities hockey community. The Tommies will partner with the St. Paul Capitals Hockey Association, marking an exciting step forward in supporting youth hockey development and strengthening community ties.
Through this collaboration, the Capitals' youth program and its girls-only program, the Saints, will utilize the Tommie Ice Plex, located within Lee & Penny Anderson Arena, for practices and games throughout the season. The facility features an NCAA regulation ice sheet and can seat up to 650 spectators. In addition to hosting practices and games, the Tommie Ice Plex has the capacity to support a variety of youth hockey events, including tournaments and special programming, providing a much-needed service to the St. Paul hockey community.
"We are thrilled to join forces with the St. Paul Capitals to support boys' and girls' youth hockey," said Phil Esten, VP and Director of Athletics. "This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission to serve and inspire our local community while promoting excellence in athletics, academics, and leadership. The opening of the Lee & Penny Anderson Arena and the Tommie Ice Plex makes this possible, providing much needed ice time to the community of St. Paul."
"The St. Paul Capitals Hockey Association's collaboration with the University of St. Thomas and the Lee & Penny Anderson Arena provides a vital boost to youth hockey in Saint Paul," commented Julie Bustos, President of the St. Paul Capitals Hockey Association. "Adding this world-class facility expands access to ice for our programs, allowing more local children to participate and thrive right here in the capital of the State of Hockey. It's a fantastic example of how university and community partnerships can create lasting positive impact."
About St. Paul Capitals
For over 50 years, the St. Paul Capitals Hockey Association has been home for thousands of youth athletes in St. Paul. Whether a child is a novice or a seasoned player, the SPCHA is dedicated to creating an inspiring environment where players can develop their skills, grow as individuals, and build a lasting love for the game.
