It was built in 1959 on the site of the old Erie Canal. When the Aud was completed, it was one of just three arenas built without obstructed views. The Aud was the model for the current Madison Square Garden arena in New York City, New York, which was built in 1968. It hosted the 1962 NCAA Frozen Four. Scenes from the 1977 movie "Slap Shot" were filmed there.