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Lawler Arena

Capacity:
2,549

Most Recently Renovated:
2023

Located on the south end of the campus of Merrimack College in North Andover, Massachusetts, Lawler is the primary home venue for the College’s Division I men's and women’s ice-hockey programs as well as the primary game venue for the men’s and women’s basketball programs (the Merrimack Warriors). The facility also serves as a multi-purpose facility for campus events  such as Commencement and concerts and other gatherings.


Facility Overview

  • The facility is named in honor of legendary coach J. Thom Lawler, who led the program to a Division II national title in 1978 and compiled the winningest record in the program’s history.
  • With a seating capacity of approximately 2,500 for hockey (and up to around 3,000 for other configurations) it offers an intimate yet energetic atmosphere.
  • The rink resides within the larger Merrimack Athletics Complex (MAC) which houses athletic offices, strength & conditioning, sports medicine, and other support spaces.
  • The facility has undergone several upgrades over the years — including a 2011 chair-back seating overhaul and press box enhancements to provide modern amenities for coaches, media and broadcasters.

Recent Renovation: The Gallant Pavilion
In 2023 the College unveiled a major transformational renovation of Lawler Rink anchored by the Gallant Pavilion, enabled by a generous multi-million-dollar gift from Richard H. Gallant ’15 and Susanna Gallant.
Key features of the renovation include:
  • The Gallant Pavilion: a 3,700-square-foot premium seating and viewing area behind the north net, with an open-concept layout and upgraded finishes that elevate the spectator experience.
  • Enhanced luxury suites and upgraded club-level settings, bringing a more refined game-day atmosphere.
  • Redesigned media, broadcast and band-performance areas: media row relocated behind the visitors’ bench, designated space for the College Marching Band on the south side of the venue, and improved infrastructure for live events.
  • Overall modern finishes, improved sight-lines, and a refreshed “barn” atmosphere that retains the venue’s intense home team advantage while delivering upgraded amenities.