Savage Arena (formerly known as John F. Savage Hall and Centennial Hall) — a multi-purpose arena located on the University of Toledo campus. Currently, the arena is home to the men's and women's basketball teams, Toledo Rockets, and the women's volleyball team, as well as hosting concerts, graduation ceremonies, and other events.
Features of the arena
Savage Arena has 33,000 square feet (3,100 m²) on the arena floor, allowing for an ice rink, an indoor football field, a rodeo ring, five basketball courts, eight volleyball courts, five tennis courts, six racquetball courts, 22 badminton courts, and a 300-yard (274 m) indoor running track.
There is also a portable stage measuring 48 by 56 feet (15 m by 17 m). On the south side of the arena, there is the Joe Grogan Room, which can accommodate up to 200 people and is used for banquets. The room is equipped with a lounge area and a bar, and over $350,000 was spent on its construction and furnishings, funded by donations from Rocket Club participants.
Men's Basketball
In the first game played at Savage Arena, Toledo's men's basketball team defeated NCAA champion Indiana with a score of 59–57, ending Bob Knight and his Hoosiers 33-game winning streak. Over the years, the team has defeated notable schools such as Ohio State, Xavier, Cincinnati, Houston, and Pittsburgh. The longest winning streak at the home arena was 16 games during the 1978-79 season. Overall, the Toledo Rockets basketball team won 73.5% of their home games, with a record of 312–112. During the first five years of Savage Arena's existence, the Rockets posted a record of 71–10, including the 1976-77, 1978-79, and 1979-80 seasons. Under the leadership of former head coach Stan Joplin, the team achieved a home record of 84–22.
Other Events
In addition to sporting events, Savage Arena is used for concerts, graduation ceremonies, and conferences. Over the years, the arena has hosted renowned performers such as Bob Dylan, Elvis Presley, Elton John, Fleetwood Mac, Rod Stewart, Pearl Jam, Smashing Pumpkins, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and others. In 2001, the arena hosted U.S. President George W. Bush and Mexican President Vicente Fox.
In 2006, a $5 million donation was made for the renovation of the arena, which ultimately cost $30 million and was completed in 2008. The renovation included new locker rooms, a fitness center, the Rockets Sports Hall of Fame, ticket offices, modern office space, and a complete upgrade of the main arena.
Current information:
Address: 2025 N Douglas Rd, Toledo, OH 43606, United States
Contacts: +1 (419)-530-4653
