This state-of-the-art facility, built adjacent to Mariucci Arena and across 4th Avenue from Williams Arena and the Sports Pavilion, gives fans a first-class and unique hockey-viewing experience. Ridder Arena opened on October 19, 2002, making it the first dedicated women's collegiate ice hockey facility in the nation. The hockey facility features seating for nearly 3,400, including a club room with 210 seats and nine suites with seating for 14 each.

The ice sheet in the new arena is 200' x 85'. Ridder Arena and Mariuccia Arena are connected bia an underground tunnel to a common area for the rinks' zambonis. Ths support space in the arena includes coaching, public, officials and team lockers rooms, as well as athletic training, laundry and equipment rooms, all at ice level.

The mezzanine level includes concession, merchandise and memorabilia areas and a new strength and conditioning area of more than 4,000 square feet.