Eastern Kentucky University officially celebrated the completion of Baptist Health Arena at Alumni Coliseum renovations. The renovation of Alumni Coliseum was funded by a $53 million appropriation from the Kentucky General Assembly.
Renovation highlights include a new playing floor inside Baptist Health Arena, a 300-seat conference center, and the Central Bank Courtside Club. Upgrades extend throughout the facility with new locker rooms, concession areas, player lounges, offices, and meeting spaces.
EKU President David McFaddin said nearly every student at EKU passes through Alumni Coliseum at some point in their college career.
“Their first orientation in this room, hearing from our student body president, hearing from our recruitment team, and hearing from those who came before, those distinguished alumni, about what it means to be a Colonel. But, likewise, this is the space in which they exit our great university,” McFaddin said.
Vice President and Director of Athletics Kyle Moats expressed excitement for fans, student athletes, and communities to enjoy the newly renovated space.
“In the world of athletics, you must remain relevant and up to date with facilities to be competitive. This renovation allows us to meet the needs of our student athletes and for our coaches to recruit the kind of athletes we need to win championships. It also creates a much improved environment for our loyal fans by providing modern-day amenities,” Moats said.
The project also added expanded areas for tournaments and special events, modern restrooms, an updated ticket office, a new fan shop, expanded sports medicine facilities, and advanced lighting, audio, and video technology.
