It’s been almost 70 years to the day when the official ribbon cutting for the Lady Beaverbrook Gym was held – February 20th, 1941 to be exact.
February 19th, 2011 will mark another special date in the life of the Varsity Reds Athletics Program, a day both to celebrate and to reflect on some very special memories. When the Varsity Reds take on the Cape Breton Capers at 5:30 pm (women) and 8:00 pm (men) the night will mark our last regular season basketball games at the Lady Beaverbrook Gym, the legendary ‘Pit’ that’s been the home court of UNB basketball and volleyball for 70 years.
A special celebration will take place between the men’s and women’s games, an opportunity for the Varsity Reds to honour many of the individuals who’ve played such a huge role in the history of UNB court sports. In the 70 years we’ve occupied the Lady Beaverbrook Gymnasium 30 head coaches have been involved in our men’s and women’s basketball and volleyball programs – many of whom we hope will join us on Saturday night. Following the men’s game we will invite all of those with a connection to The Pit to join us on the court for a mass photo for posterity.
Also, during the evening a display of memorabilia from years gone by will be on display in the dance studio; located on the second level at the east end of the gym.
Next season the Varsity Reds will move to a new location. We are extremely excited that the Richard J. Currie Center will be the showcase of UNB court sports for the 2011-2012 season and for many seasons to come.