Hodag Dome reopens ahead of Class of 2025 graduation

Just under two months after it was deflated, the Hodag Dome is officially back up and operational. On Friday morning, members of the Rhinelander High School Class of 2025 participated in graduation practice inside the Dome. The commencement ceremony is scheduled for 2 p.m. Sunday in the Dome.

The Dome was deflated due to damage suffered when a backup generator failed to operate during an ice storm on March 30.

“This rapid turnaround was made possible through the extraordinary efforts of many individuals and teams who came together to make the restoration a priority,” School District of Rhinelander officials said in a press release. “Special recognition goes to Janet, Janice, and the Dome staff for their leadership and hands-on work in cleaning and preparing the Dome. The District Maintenance Team, led by Pat Kegley, worked in close collaboration with the Arizon crew to complete essential repairs. In addition, James from the district’s insurance provider played a key role in expediting the claims process, ensuring repairs and equipment replacements were fully covered, and helping implement generator backup systems to prevent future issues during power outages. While some repair work on the track, tennis courts, and lighting will continue into the summer months, the Dome will remain operational during this time, with only minimal closures during scheduled maintenance work.”

The Hodag Dome will reopen to the public on Tuesday, June 3, at 6 a.m.

“We’re incredibly proud of the teamwork and commitment it took to bring the Dome back online so quickly,” said Eric Burke, Superintendent of the School District of Rhinelander. “We look forward to celebrating the Class of 2025 this Sunday and welcoming the community back to what we believe is the best school district dome in the world—The Hodag Dome.”