At 4:04 p.m., the lights flickered on and Chaifetz Arena was filled with light for the first time. The pep band launched into song, and running students carried three school flags across the court as the audience waved Billiken flags in the bleachers.
Chaifetz Arena, Saint Louis University’s new on-campus facility, officially opened Thursday, April 10, in a ceremony attended by SLU students, faculty and alumni, as well as St. Louis Mayor Francis Slay.
Many University officials spoke prior to the ribbon cutting, including Director of Athletics Chris May.
“We’ve got a place for all Billiken fans to come and enjoy, and we hope you’ll do that,” said May.
May asked for all of the student athletes present to stand.
“The reason why we are here is because these men and women deserve the very best,” he said.
University President Lawrence Biondi, S.J., reminded the crowd of SLU’s importance to the city.
“Saint Louis University continues to be committed-committed to the revitalization of our St. Louis community,” Biondi said.
He thanked those who had given more than $1 million to the project, including an anonymous donor.
A group of University officials collectively snipped the ribbon that stretched across the court, from basketball hoop to basketball hoop, earning an enthusiastic response from the crowd.
Richard Chaifetz, Psy.D., the arena’s largest benefactor and a SLU alumnus, spoke about what inspired him to donate his money and name to the new facility.
“Back in the ’70s, when I was struggling to pay my tuition, the University gave me a chance,” Chaifetz said. “I knew my chance to pay back the University and Father Biondi had finally come.”
Chaifetz gave the school a $12-million gift early last year.
After the ribbon-cutting ceremony, attendees got a taste of things on the horizon for the arena. The concession stands treated attendees to snacks, and those interested could tour the building-from the luxury suites to the locker rooms.
A line near one of the entrances ended at a table of SLU athletes who gave autographs to fans.
“We started contacting Hall of Famers back in January to let them know about the event,” said Amanda Rainey, director of stewardship and team leader for the planning of the arena-opening events. “Our former athletes are just as excited about the opening of our new home court as we are.”
To the side of the table, Harlem Globetrotter Curly Neal spun a basketball on his finger and greeted fans to drum up excitement for the team’s event at the arena today.
Busch Gardens representatives also drew a crowd, with a giant python and a porcupine, which a few brave attendees got the opportunity to pet.
The Board of Trustees approved the construction of the arena in February 2003, and construction began in October 2006.
