OSU, Michigan hockey to play outdoors at Progressive Field

Aug 11, 2011 - 8:09 PM Cleveland, OH (Sports Network) - The Cleveland Indians announced Thursday that their stadium, Progressive Field, will host a hockey game between Ohio State and Michigan this coming winter.

The event will take place January 15, 2012 at 5:05 p.m. and will be the first outdoor college hockey game in the state of Ohio. It will be sanctioned by the Central Collegiate Hockey Association (CCHA).

The Indians' release said there will be a regulation-sized ice rank -- which they dubbed "The Frozen Diamond" -- placed on the infield, covering home plate and stretching down the first base line.

"An event at a venue like Progressive Field is great for both the institutions and the league as a whole," said CCHA commissioner Fred Pletsch. "We're looking forward to coming to Cleveland this January to see a terrific rivalry showcased in a distinctive and memorable setting."

The contest will be the second in a two-game series between the schools. They will also play in Columbus on January 13.