The Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) announced that the 2026 Ice Hockey State Tournament will once again take place at Nationwide Arena in Columbus. The event is scheduled for March 14-15, marking the 24th consecutive year that the arena has hosted the state finals.
The tournament brings together regional winners from Kent, Brooklyn, Columbus, and Bowling Green. These teams will compete for the state title on the same ice used by professional athletes.
Nationwide Arena, located in downtown Columbus, can seat up to 18,500 spectators. It offers features such as high-definition scoreboards and a variety of concession stands. Fans also have access to the Blue Jackets Fan Zone.
Tommy Trowell, Grassroots Hockey Manager for the Columbus Blue Jackets, highlighted the importance of this tradition: “We take great pride in hosting the OHSAA Ice Hockey State Championship every year,” said Trowell. “Playing at Nationwide Arena gives student athletes the opportunity to compete on the same ice as some of the sport’s biggest names while also creating an atmosphere that will be memorable for the players, families, and fans alike.”
John Kronour, OHSAA Director of Sport Management, spoke about what playing at Nationwide Arena means for students: “For many of these student-athletes, competing at Nationwide Arena represents years of dedication to the sport,” Kronour said. “Competing in a professional arena is a special experience for the players, coaches, and fans.”
The semifinal games are set for March 14 at 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM. The championship game will follow on March 15 at 4:00 PM.
