SAP-Arena – Mannheim

Including protection concept for field hamsters

Let’s think about aging. With people finishing their working life at 65, it is not surprising that Mannheim’s ice stadium, Friedrichspark, is now ready for retirement. It was officially opened on 19 February 1939—but had hindered more than promoted the transformation of the richly traditional Mannheim Eis- und Rollsport-Club (MERC) into a modern business enterprise. The Friedrichspark was still a cult venue, but viewed in the cold light of day, it was the cause of an annual deficit. The reason: virtually 50 percent of the spectator potential could not be utilised—instead of a possible average of between 8,500 to 9,000 visitors, only 5,700 could come to the games. The owners of the Mannheim Adler Club, Dietmar and Daniel Hopp, had already identified this problem in 2001: “If no progress is made regarding a new hall, it will be difficult to retain the Mannheim location.“ Because no one wants to hear something along these lines in this ice hockey-mad region, a team of developers, including the Hopp Stiftung, assembled to construct a multi-functional arena plus two connected training halls with two additional ice areas in the Bösfeld section of Mannheim. Even the regional institute for environmental protection joined in the effort. For three of the field hamster families were made homeless by the new construction, the institute outlined a protection concept, which adhered to strict European Union directives. Within 25 months, the structure, designed to accommodate 13,700 spectators at a cost of approximately 79 million euros, was completed. Naturally, not just ice hockey is played here, but a balanced and effective mix of 50 other top events are also presented annually. Since 2 September 2005, the times in which the spatial and hygienic conditions reminded one of the Middle Ages have finally come to an end. Women are no longer forced to freeze, spectators no longer empty their full bladders in the bushes, fans no longer stand on crates to get a better view, stretching their necks in the process. The ultramodern facility not only offers visitors an optimal view, its infrastructure also satisfies even the most discerning standards. Numerous catering outlets guarantee a dining experience as varied as the visitor structure: from the VIP boxes and business suites to a terrace restaurant on the steps and a pub for fans. The 65 year old Friedrichspark can now calmly and serenely face its retirement age.