Bob Devaney Sports Center Info

The Bob Devaney Sports Center, affectionately known as "The Bob," stands as a cornerstone of athletic excellence on the University of Nebraska–Lincoln campus. Whether you're a die-hard Cornhuskers fan, a prospective student-athlete, or simply curious about one of Lincoln's premier sports venues, understanding what this multi-purpose complex offers is key. This comprehensive guide provides all the essential Bob Devaney Sports Center info you need, from its storied past to its state-of-the-art facilities and what to expect when you visit.

Unveiling the Bob Devaney Sports Center: A Hub of Husker Athletics

Have you ever wondered about the heart of Nebraska Cornhuskers' indoor sports? The Bob Devaney Sports Center is precisely that. This sprawling complex is a vital part of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln's athletic landscape, hosting a variety of NCAA events and serving as a training ground for numerous Husker teams.

A Rich History: The Legacy of Bob Devaney

The Bob Devaney Sports Center first opened its doors in 1976, initially known as the NU Sports Complex. It was built to replace the smaller NU Coliseum as the university's primary indoor athletic venue. Just two years later, in 1978, the facility was officially named in honor of Bob Devaney, a legendary figure in Nebraska athletics. Devaney, a College Football Hall of Fame coach, led the Nebraska football team to two national championships and served as the university's athletic director for over two decades until 1992. His enduring influence on the university's athletic programs is celebrated through this impressive center.

Initially, "The Bob" was home to both men's and women's basketball teams for 37 years, until 2013, when those programs moved to the new Pinnacle Bank Arena. Following this transition, the Devaney Center underwent extensive modernization and renovation, with approximately $20 million spent to transform its main arena.

What Sports Call the Devaney Center Home?

Today, the Bob Devaney Sports Center is a vibrant hub for several Nebraska Cornhuskers athletic programs. While basketball has moved on, the complex remains a crucial venue for:

• Volleyball: Since 2013, the main arena has become the dedicated home for the highly successful Nebraska women's volleyball team, which has consistently led the nation in attendance. The arena's listed capacity for volleyball is 8,309 spectators.
• Wrestling: The wrestling program also relocated to the Devaney Center in 2013.
• Men's and Women's Gymnastics: Both gymnastics programs have called the Devaney Center home since 1976, with a dedicated practice facility, the Francis Allen Training Center, opening in April 2020.
• Indoor Track and Field: The Devaney Center has housed Nebraska's indoor track and field program since its construction. It features a 200-meter hydraulic-banked track, considered one of the largest of its kind globally, with seating for up to 5,000 spectators.
• Swimming and Diving: The Devaney Center Natatorium, part of the original 1976 facility, features a 25-yard pool with 10 lanes and seating for 1,000 spectators. It's equipped with advanced technology for training and competition.

Exploring the Facilities: More Than Just Arenas

The Bob Devaney Sports Center isn't just about the main arena; it's a comprehensive complex designed to support elite collegiate athletics. Beyond the primary competition venues, visitors and athletes will find:

• Hendricks Training Complex: An 80,000-square-foot facility providing dedicated locker rooms, weight rooms, and an athletic medicine department for basketball and wrestling teams.
• Concessions: Variety of concession stands are available, offering popular items.
• Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair accessible, with dedicated parking spaces and ADA-compliant seating throughout the arena.
• Modern Upgrades: Over the years, the Devaney Center has seen continuous improvements, including HuskerVision replay screens, digital message boards, updated sound and lighting systems, and display areas highlighting over a century of Nebraska athletics.

Planning Your Visit: Essential Bob Devaney Sports Center Info

Attending an event at "The Bob" is an exciting experience. Here's some practical Bob Devaney Sports Center info to help you plan your visit:

• Location: The Bob Devaney Sports Center is located on the campus of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln at 1600 Court Street, Lincoln, NE 68508.
• Parking: There are approximately 4,000 to 5,000 parking stalls available. Public parking often has a fee (e.g., $5 for NSAA Volleyball Championships). Parking passes can be purchased in advance for specific events, and tailgating rules may apply. Accessible parking is available on the south side of the building.
• Tickets: It's recommended to get tickets in advance, especially for high-profile games. You can browse the event schedule and purchase tickets through official university channels or authorized ticketing platforms.
• Seating: The arena features lower and upper bowl seating, with premium courtside options for select events. Some advise avoiding Row 1 due to limited knee room.
• Arrive Early: To ensure a smooth experience with parking and entry, especially for popular events, arriving early is always a good idea.

Beyond Regular Season: Hosting Major Events

The Devaney Center's versatility and capacity have made it a preferred venue for significant athletic events beyond regular season collegiate games. It has a rich history of hosting:

• NCAA men's and women's basketball tournaments.
• Big Ten, Big Eight, and Big 12 conference championship meets for track and field, and swimming.
• The Nebraska School Activities Association (NSAA) Boys and Girls State Basketball Tournament for nearly four decades.
• Other prestigious amateur and NCAA events, including the 2017 USA World Wrestling Team Trials.

Historically, it also served as a major concert destination in Lincoln throughout the late 1970s and 1980s, hosting legendary performers like Elton John, Billy Joel, Frank Sinatra, and Bruce Springsteen.

Conclusion

The Bob Devaney Sports Center is far more than just a building; it's a living testament to the spirit of Nebraska athletics. From its origins as a multi-purpose arena to its current role as a specialized hub for volleyball, wrestling, gymnastics, indoor track and field, and swimming and diving, "The Bob" continues to be a source of pride and excitement for the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and its fans. With its modern facilities, rich history, and commitment to providing an exceptional fan experience, it remains a must-visit destination for sports enthusiasts in the region.

Have you experienced the electrifying atmosphere at the Devaney Center? Share your favorite memories or tips for visiting in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions About the Bob Devaney Sports Center

Q1: What is the Bob Devaney Sports Center primarily used for now?

A1: The Bob Devaney Sports Center is primarily used as the home venue for the University of Nebraska–Lincoln's women's volleyball, men's and women's wrestling, men's and women's gymnastics, indoor track and field, and swimming and diving teams.

Q2: What is the seating capacity of the Bob Devaney Sports Center?

A2: The seating capacity of the Bob Devaney Sports Center varies by event. For volleyball, the main arena has a capacity of approximately 8,309 spectators. The indoor track area can seat up to 5,000, and the natatorium (swimming and diving) has a capacity of 1,000.

Q3: Where is the Bob Devaney Sports Center located?

A3: The Bob Devaney Sports Center is located on the campus of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln at 1600 Court Street, Lincoln, NE 68508.

Q4: Does the Bob Devaney Sports Center offer accessible seating and parking?

A4: Yes, the Bob Devaney Sports Center is committed to accessibility, offering ADA-compliant seating throughout the arena and designated wheelchair-accessible parking spaces, typically located on the south side of the building.