Intro
Discover the rich George Albert Smith Fieldhouse History, exploring its construction, notable events, and renovations, highlighting Brigham Young Universitys athletics and recreation facilities, including basketball and volleyball venues.
The George Albert Smith Fieldhouse, located on the campus of Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, has a rich and fascinating history that spans over six decades. The fieldhouse, named after the eighth president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has been a hub for various activities, including sports, concerts, and community events. As we delve into the history of this iconic building, we will explore its construction, notable events, and the impact it has had on the university and the surrounding community.
The concept of building a fieldhouse on the Brigham Young University campus dates back to the early 1950s. The university's administration, led by President Ernest L. Wilkinson, recognized the need for a multi-purpose facility that could accommodate the growing student body and athletic programs. After several years of planning and fundraising, the construction of the George Albert Smith Fieldhouse began in 1958. The building was designed by the architectural firm of Edwards and Daniels, and the construction was completed in 1959 at a cost of approximately $1.5 million.
The fieldhouse was officially dedicated on December 5, 1959, in a ceremony attended by university officials, students, and community leaders. The building was named in honor of George Albert Smith, who served as the president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1945 to 1951. President Smith was a prominent figure in the church and a strong supporter of education and athletics. The fieldhouse was designed to be a versatile facility, with a large indoor arena, locker rooms, training facilities, and office space for athletic staff.
Early Years and Notable Events
The George Albert Smith Fieldhouse quickly became a popular venue for various events, including basketball games, concerts, and community gatherings. The fieldhouse was home to the Brigham Young University men's basketball team, which competed in the Western Athletic Conference. The team enjoyed significant success during the 1960s and 1970s, winning several conference championships and appearing in the NCAA tournament. The fieldhouse also hosted numerous concerts and performances, featuring notable artists such as Bob Hope, Bing Crosby, and the Beach Boys.
One of the most notable events held at the George Albert Smith Fieldhouse was the 1967 NCAA Men's Division I Basketball Tournament. The fieldhouse was selected as one of the host sites for the tournament, and it played host to several games, including the regional semifinals and finals. The tournament was a significant success, with thousands of fans attending the games and millions more watching on television.
Renovations and Expansions
Over the years, the George Albert Smith Fieldhouse has undergone several renovations and expansions to improve its facilities and accommodate the growing needs of the university and the community. In 1975, the fieldhouse underwent a major renovation, which included the installation of a new roof, the replacement of the original wooden floor with a synthetic surface, and the addition of new locker rooms and training facilities. The renovation also included the construction of a new annex, which provided additional office space and meeting rooms.
In the 1990s, the fieldhouse underwent another significant renovation, which included the installation of a new sound system, the replacement of the original seating with new, more comfortable seats, and the addition of new concession stands and restrooms. The renovation also included the construction of a new entrance and lobby, which improved access to the fieldhouse and provided a more welcoming atmosphere for visitors.
Impact on the University and Community
The George Albert Smith Fieldhouse has had a significant impact on Brigham Young University and the surrounding community. The fieldhouse has provided a venue for various events and activities, including sports, concerts, and community gatherings. The fieldhouse has also served as a hub for university functions, including commencement ceremonies, devotional assemblies, and other events.
The fieldhouse has also played a significant role in the development of the university's athletic programs. The fieldhouse has been home to several sports teams, including men's and women's basketball, volleyball, and gymnastics. The fieldhouse has also hosted numerous athletic events, including conference championships and NCAA tournaments.
In addition to its impact on the university, the George Albert Smith Fieldhouse has also had a significant impact on the surrounding community. The fieldhouse has provided a venue for various community events, including concerts, festivals, and fundraisers. The fieldhouse has also served as a hub for community functions, including high school graduations, proms, and other events.
Current Status and Future Plans
Today, the George Albert Smith Fieldhouse continues to be a vibrant and active venue, hosting a wide range of events and activities. The fieldhouse is home to the Brigham Young University men's and women's volleyball teams, which compete in the West Coast Conference. The fieldhouse also hosts numerous concerts, performances, and community events throughout the year.
In recent years, the university has invested significant resources in renovating and upgrading the fieldhouse. In 2015, the fieldhouse underwent a major renovation, which included the installation of a new roof, the replacement of the original seating with new, more comfortable seats, and the addition of new concession stands and restrooms. The renovation also included the construction of a new entrance and lobby, which improved access to the fieldhouse and provided a more welcoming atmosphere for visitors.
Looking to the future, the university has plans to continue upgrading and expanding the George Albert Smith Fieldhouse. The university is currently exploring options for renovating the fieldhouse's athletic facilities, including the construction of new locker rooms and training facilities. The university is also considering plans to expand the fieldhouse's seating capacity and improve its amenities, including the addition of new concession stands and restrooms.
George Albert Smith Fieldhouse Image Gallery
What is the history of the George Albert Smith Fieldhouse?
+The George Albert Smith Fieldhouse was constructed in 1958 and dedicated on December 5, 1959. It was named after the eighth president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and has since become a hub for various activities, including sports, concerts, and community events.
What events have been held at the George Albert Smith Fieldhouse?
+The George Albert Smith Fieldhouse has hosted numerous events, including basketball games, concerts, and community gatherings. It has also been the site of several athletic events, including conference championships and NCAA tournaments.
What are the current plans for the George Albert Smith Fieldhouse?
+The university is currently exploring options for renovating and expanding the George Albert Smith Fieldhouse. Plans include upgrading the athletic facilities, expanding the seating capacity, and improving the amenities.
As we reflect on the history and significance of the George Albert Smith Fieldhouse, it is clear that this iconic building has played a vital role in the development of Brigham Young University and the surrounding community. From its construction in the 1950s to the present day, the fieldhouse has been a hub for various activities, including sports, concerts, and community events. As the university continues to grow and evolve, it is likely that the George Albert Smith Fieldhouse will remain a beloved and integral part of the campus landscape. We invite you to share your thoughts and memories of the George Albert Smith Fieldhouse in the comments below, and to explore the many resources and events that this incredible facility has to offer.