Gavin McKenna, a potential first-overall pick in the 2026 draft, will have an opportunity to make a significant impression on a major stage during his inaugural year in NCAA college hockey.
McKenna`s team, the Penn State Nittany Lions, is scheduled to play an outdoor game at the university`s Beaver Stadium on January 31, 2026, against their fierce rivals, the Michigan State Spartans.
The stadium boasts a massive capacity of 106,572 spectators, promising an electric atmosphere for the event.
Adding to the excitement, the event will also feature the Penn State women`s team, who will compete against Robert Morris as part of a thrilling doubleheader.
“Bringing the thrill of college hockey to Beaver Stadium is truly a special occasion,” remarked Robert Kraft, Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics, in a recent statement. “Having our men`s program face a top Big Ten opponent in Michigan State, and our women`s program compete against Robert Morris on such a grand stage, highlights the remarkable growth and national recognition of Penn State Hockey. It also promises an unforgettable experience for our student-athletes, alumni, and devoted fans.”
A native of Whitehorse, McKenna formally committed to the Big Ten squad in July, following three impactful seasons with the Medicine Hat Tigers in the Western Hockey League (WHL).
This move was made possible by a recent agreement between the NCAA and the Canadian Hockey League (CHL), reached late last year, which now permits Canadian major junior players to participate in U.S. collegiate hockey.
Last season, McKenna showcased his immense talent by finishing second in WHL scoring with an impressive 129 points in 56 regular-season games. He further added 38 points in 16 playoff matches before his Tigers were ultimately defeated by the London Knights in the Memorial Cup championship. The 17-year-old was deservingly honored with the prestigious David Branch Player of the Year award, recognizing him as the CHL`s most outstanding player.
Penn State`s men`s Division I hockey program, which was established in 2012, has been on an impressive upward trajectory in the NCAA, reaching its first-ever Frozen Four in program history last season, signaling a new era of success for the Nittany Lions.