Within the cold, windswept landscapes of Grand Forks, North Dakota, beats the heart of college hockey. The University of North Dakota’s Ralph Engelstad Hockey Arena arises from that unforgiving climate and stands as a monument to the very spirit of hockey. It’s a place where the word valor still means something.

For Mark Poolman, Athletic Trainer and Human Performance Director, the arena is more than just a facility; it’s a testament to a 30-year journey of passion, dedication, and relentless pursuit of excellence. A recent remodel of this beloved destination has not only elevated its stature within the hockey community but has also reinforced its tradition and impact on the sport.

The need for innovation led Poolman to choose Mondo Valor for the weight room’s flooring. Mondo’s premier surface, Valor Flooring, is specifically designed to cater to the high demands of weight room environments, combining durability with performance. Above all else, Poolman wanted his new flooring to prevent slip-and-fall accidents that often occur when weight room floors get wet. Whether it’s sweat, a spill or simply water tracked in from outdoors, it poses a risk that must be addressed.

Poolman’s selection of Mondo Valor flooring reflects his insightful approach to enhancing athlete performance while preserving the arena’s heritage. It extends his desire to encourage innovative training within an inspirational environment. Poolman’s dedication to the facility underscores the importance of blending tradition with progress, ensuring the arena remains a cherished destination for hockey fans and a symbol of excellence in athletic training.

By integrating state-of-the-art technology with a deep respect for the arena’s history, the remodel has set a new standard for sports facilities. Poolman’s dedication to providing the best for athletes and fans alike, and his inspired selection of Mondo Valor flooring, make the Ralph Engelstad Arena not just a great place to play and watch hockey, but also a beacon of human performance and dedication to doing it safely