QU TO CELEBRATE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF PEPSI ARENA
Quincy University will celebrate the 75th anniversary of Pepsi Arena, QU’s historic indoor athletic facility, with special acknowledgements and promotions during the women’s and men’s basketball games at 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. on February 22 in Pepsi Arena in the Health and Fitness Center, 19th & Oak Street.
“Pepsi Arena has been the site of many of the most important moments in Quincy’s history,” said Brian McGee, PhD, QU president. “Games, tournaments, dances, and concerts at Pepsi Arena have created wonderful memories for thousands of people throughout the region. Today, this facility remains a beloved gathering place, where people continue to connect across the generations.”
Pepsi Arena’s original name was Quincy Memorial Gymnasium. The groundbreaking for the gym was in November 1948, with a cornerstone placed in April 1950 and a dedication ceremony led by the Franciscan Provincial Minister, Eligius Weir, OFM, in December 1950. At the time Memorial Gym was built, it was the largest sports structure in Quincy.
In 1999, Pepsi Arena was part of a major campus building project that featured the addition of the Quincy University Health and Fitness Center, which includes three multi-purpose courts, an indoor track and racquetball courts, a weight room and an aerobics/dance room. Memorial Gymnasium was re-named Pepsi Arena in 2000 to acknowledge Refreshment Services Pepsi for their continued and generous support of Hawks athletics.
“The historical significance of Memorial Gymnasium/Pepsi Arena to Quincy University and the city of Quincy, IL, is immeasurable,” said Josh Rabe, QU Athletic Director. “This versatile facility has hosted countless events and served a myriad of purposes. Our athletic department is truly privileged to call this timeless building our home-court advantage.”
Throughout the history of what now is Pepsi Arena, the venue has served as the host of memorable moments from NCAA basketball, volleyball and wrestling tournaments to annual fundraisers, notable guest speakers and concerts.
During the games on February 22, historic Pepsi Arena/Memorial Gym moments will be acknowledged, and alumni will be recognized. There will be Pepsi giveaways throughout the games and a chance to win cash prizes. QU fans need to be in Pepsi Arena by the beginning of the women’s game to be eligible for the opportunity to win cash prizes.
Founded in 1860 by Franciscan friars, Quincy University is a small Catholic university emphasizing the sciences, liberal arts and the professions. Quincy University offers undergraduate, graduate and adult education programs integrating practical experience and Franciscan values. Faculty and advisors work with students to design customized success plans to help them graduate on time, find their passion and prepare them for life. QU is a member of NCAA Division II for intercollegiate athletics. For more information, please visit www.quincy.edu or contact the Office of Community Relations at (217) 228-5275 or communityrelations@quincy.edu. Quincy University. Success by Design.
