"We are extremely excited to announce the Frozen Four Skills Challenge and look forward to this event further enhancing the Frozen Four weekend," said Tom Jacobs, NCAA director of championships and liaison to the Division I Men's Ice Hockey Committee. "This should be an outstanding event featuring some of the top college hockey players in the nation, both male and female, and will add to the fan experience to make this into a full weekend of exciting hockey action. The Frozen Four Skills Challenge will top off the Friday activities that will also include the presentation of the Humanitarian and Hobey Baker Awards. It will be a great day for fans of college hockey."

The Skills Challenge will include male and female college hockey players from across the nation who have exhausted their eligibility. The exact events of the Skills Challenge have not been determined but will likely include among them fastest shot, fastest skater and most accurate shooter.

A mailing to the 2006 Men's Frozen Four ticket holders will be sent the week of November 28 allowing them to purchase tickets for the Skills Challenge, which will cost $10 each. Tickets for the general public will go on sale Saturday, February 18 through Ticketmaster and the Bradley Center box office.

"We couldn’t be happier to be part of the inaugural 2006 Frozen Four Skills Challenge," said Steve Costello, President and CEO, Bradley Center Sports and Entertainment Corp. "This special event is a tremendous addition to the tournament week festivities and an inexpensive way for Frozen Four attendees and local hockey fans alike to watch some of college hockey’s best players showcase their talent in what is sure to be an exciting and entertaining event."

Nike Bauer Hockey has agreed to supply the necessary equipment for the event, while the American College Hockey Coaches Association will organize the selection of the participants.

"We have been committed to the college game unlike any other manufacturer in the industry and we are excited to help bring the Skills Challenge to life at the Frozen Four," said Ed Saunders, U.S. Marketing Manager, Nike Bauer Hockey. "As a company, we are always looking for ways to grow the game and we believe the Skills Challenge is only going to enhance what is already one of the most exciting events in amateur hockey."

The 2006 NCAA Men’s Frozen Four, hosted by the University of Wisconsin, Madison, will be held April 6 and 8, at the Bradley Center and is sold out. Further information regarding the NCAA Frozen Four Skills Challenge will be announced as more details are finalized.