Cornell will return to Madison Square Garden over Thanksgiving weekend for the seventh edition of the Frozen Apple series, with the Big Red set to face Maine on Saturday, November 28. Announced Monday, the neutral-site matchup marks Cornell’s 31st appearance at the Garden and the first Frozen Apple game scheduled for a noon start to accommodate a New York Rangers game later that evening. The contest will stream on ESPN+ and reunites the programs after Cornell’s 2-1 victory over the Black Bears in the 2024 NCAA regional semifinals.
“The Frozen Apple is more than a hockey game — it’s a celebration of Cornell, our alumni, and the traditions that bring the Big Red community together,” said Dr. Nicki Moore, Cornell’s Meakem & Smith Director of Athletics and Physical Education. “There’s no more fitting place to gather than New York City and Madison Square Garden, where generations of Cornellians have come together to cheer on the Big Red. We’re excited to welcome our alumni, fans, and friends for a Thanksgiving weekend matinee while showcasing one of college hockey’s premier programs against an outstanding opponent in Maine on one of the sport’s most iconic stages.”
The Big Red have enjoyed consistent success in the Frozen Apple series, winning five of the previous six editions, including victories over Michigan, Penn State, New Hampshire, UConn, and Quinnipiac. Cornell owns an 8-3-2 record in its last 13 games at Madison Square Garden, while Maine will be making its first appearance at the iconic venue.
“We are thrilled to bring Cornell back to Madison Square Garden on Thanksgiving Weekend,” added Casey Jones ’90, the Jay R. Bloom ’77 Head Coach of Cornell Men’s Ice Hockey. “Playing at MSG has become one of the premier events in college hockey, and facing Maine in that environment will be a tremendous opportunity for our program. There is nothing quite like competing at The World’s Most Famous Arena in front of our alumni and the Lynah Faithful — it energizes our players and connects our community in a truly special way. We expect Maine to bring a tough, physical brand of hockey, and we look forward to the challenge.”
Tickets go on sale Wednesday, July 22, at noon EDT through Big Red Tix, with additional inventory to be released later through Madison Square Garden and Ticketmaster.Maine head coach Ben Barr welcomed the opportunity, saying, “This is one of those college hockey experiences that is really special. We are thrilled to play a great team in a great venue in a great city.”
The remainder of Cornell’s 2026-27 non-conference schedule will be announced at a later date.
Anthony Volpe delivers grand slam, career-high five RBI in return as Yankees sweep Rockies 
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.