| Mavericks fans who packed College Park Center witnessed the dawning of a new era Feb. 1 as a spectacular multimedia and pyrotechnic extravaganza christened the striking $78 million special events venue. Fans will find 7000 seats in the arena, which includes 600 premium seats below the 2800-square-foot hospitality suites, and bleachers reserved for students. The action plays on the four-sided, Daktronics center-hung video display and one end-hung video board as well as 101 LG televisions throughout the center. For 47 years, UT Arlington's basketball and volleyball teams played on the stage at Texas Hall, which hindered recruiting, surprised visiting teams, and underwhelmed spectators. There were no training rooms back stage, and basketballs and volleyballs occasionally ventured into the orchestra pit. Athletes now enjoy two full-size practice courts that allow team workouts. The Athletics Suite provides a spacious weight room, attractive team and visitors locker rooms, an academic center for student-athletes, and a state-of-the-art Sports Medicine Center highlighted by a hydrotherapy room with underwater video cameras that trainers can use to help athletes recover from injury. College Park Center will host not only University sports, speakers, and commencement ceremonies, but also concerts, entertainment and sporting events, area high school graduations, and more. For event schedules, tickets, bookings, and other information, go to www.utacollegepark.com. |
