Main Arena

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The new roof supports a theatrical grid system 78 feet above the floor. The grid is capable of supporting up to 100,000 pounds of equipment.

Three levels of seating surround the main arena floor which is 14.5 feet below ground level to take advantage of the constant temperature of the earth. The first level bleacher seating for 3,264 pulls out almost to the sidelines of the basketball court. On level two, 4,965 armchairs on retractable bleacher comprise the dark blue seats. The third level provides fixed seating for 3,631. There are 117 disabled/companion seats on Level 1, 2 & 3. With all of the seating in use the O'Connell Center main arena can accommodate almost 12,000 spectators. In addition, we also can seat people in folding chairs on the main arena floor during concerts or banquets.

On level one there is room for three intramural basketball games or one collegiate game during which the drop-in wooden floor is used.

With the bleachers retracted, the floor space measures 120 by 174 feet (approx. 20,000 sq ft).

On level two when the bleachers are retracted there is exposed a six lane, 220 yard track (1/8 mile). On this same area are painted the courts for eight volleyball or twelve badminton games. The total area of this level is almost 34,000 square feet.

Net curtains which run the inner perimeter of this level may be pulled out from behind the gates to prevent volleyballs and other equipment from falling onto the main floor.

Both the main arena floor and the second level floor are made of a synthetic substance called ChemTurf. The track is textured to provide a better running surface.

The O'Connell Center's flexibility is enhanced by the many pieces of equipment which can be moved and retracted. In addition to the retractable bleacher seating, the basketball goals, the stage, and the drop-in basketball and volleyball floors are examples of this unique flexibility.