Ohio University’s Convocation Center Celebrates 50 years and a Broken Record
By: Katrina Kopronica
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ATHENS, Ohio – The 50th anniversary of the Convocation Center was one special occasion. The day was not only celebrated with back-to-back basketball games and a thrilling half time performance, it was also celebrated with a record-breaker.
Over the last half a century, the arena has hosted games and celebrations that will never be forgotten. “The Round House on Richland,” as it has been nicknamed, has hosted games and celebrations that have created lasting memories for students, alumni, and the community. It has been the home to Ohio University’s Men’s and Women’s Basketball, volleyball, and wrestling teams alongside being the venue of many concerts and campus events, and with over 60 dorms rooms, some students even call it home.
The Convo has undergone many changes throughout the years. From the appearance, the fans, the mascots, and everything in between.
One thing hasn’t changed, however: the way it is loved by many who treasure the memories made there. A building that is more than just a building, it has become a symbol of Ohio University.
The celebration had to be big enough to live up to the rich legacy of the past five decades.
And it did.
50 years of unforgettable events and memories have given the Convocation Center life, and on its 50th anniversary, history was made.
OHIO Junior Amani Burke broke an Ohio University and Mid-American Conference record with eleven 3-pointers – not even knowing she was making history.
“It might have been in the third, in the third quarter, because I knew I was hot but I didn’t think I would continue to get shots like I was … I was just shooting naturally,” she said of becoming aware of her accomplishment.
Before the game started Burke told her teammates and head coach Bob Boldon that she was going to shoot ten 3’s.
“At the rate she made them, tonight was incredible,” Coach Boldon said, “but it was still very much a team effort.”
The women’s basketball team left the Convocation Center that night with a victory, defeating conference rival Ball State 94-62.
Another great memory in the books for The Roundhouse on Richland.