Craziness at ComCen

Before Coppin's Physical Education Complex became the third-largest project completed by the Stadium Authority, that distinction belonged to another college facility -- Comcast Center in College Park, which replaced the venerable Cole Field House as the home of the Terps in 2002.

There was wailing and gnashing of teeth when the 1955 arena was abandoned in favor of the larger, more luxurious facility with greater amenities.  Despite being HVAC challanged (among other shortcomings) Cole Field House had a boatload of memories and great moments.  It was also intimidating to opponents with its peculiar acoustics amplifying the home town roar.  Cole Field House, like Memorial Stadium, had a soul -- and a special place in the heart of Marylanders.

When MSA undertook the responsibility of replacing the unreplacable, these factors were taken into consideration, along with the site challenges.  A sloping hill that could have proven an expensive obstacle was incorporated into a steep bank of spectators -- an end zone reservered for students that was as visually intimidating as it was loud.  To give the same surround-sound acoustical advantage that made Cole such an auditory annoyance for opponents, student seating was incorporated on all four sides of the court.

The memorable view of the court from the concourse level was also incorporated into the Comcast Center design, simulating the look and feel of Cole Field House.

Comcast seats nearly 18,000 spectators (although I suspect there may have been a few extra hanging from the rafters during the Duke game.)  It also  features a 7,000 square foot Academic Support and Career Development Center, a student activity center, accommodation facilities for 25 different sports and incorporates a well-equipped training facility.  It also has practice courts, a wrestling gym, administration offices and the "Walk of Fame."

These were all in place when Comcast opened in 2002.  But somewhere during the ensuring eight years, Comcast acquired a heart and a soul, too.   It developed its own identify as a feared opponent.  It seared its own unforgettable memories.

Last Monday night was one of those not soon forgotten by any of the capacity-plus crowd.  Defeating Duke (anytime, anywhere, any sport) is always cause for celebration.  But Monday night, at Comcast Center, the atmosphere was electric and the Terps (and fans) were on fire.

I doubt seriously if any there had even a fleeting thought about who built their arena, or how it differs from the hallowed hall of yore.  But for those of us at MSA, it is a reminder of what we do that impacts upon the State of Maryland and those who live, work, and attend school here.

Good luck in the tourneys, Terps.  As the song says, we're all behind you.