Athletics Makes New-Look O'Connell Center Official Wednesday

WEST HARTFORD, Conn. – It was a great day to be a Blue Jay, as the University of Saint Joseph (USJ) officially cut the ribbon and welcomed in all to the newly completed O'Connell Athletic Center Wednesday afternoon.

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Among those speaking and in attendance included USJ President, Dr. Rhona Free, USJ Athletic Director Amanda Devitt, and the countless donors and supporters who helped put this project on the map. The near-acre addition includes a new gymnasium, new locker rooms, a larger health services wing, new state-of-the-art fitness center, and updates to the original 'OC' as well. You can dive deeper into the new-look O'Connell Center here. 

"It's so great to have such a wonderful place for all students to come together," said USJ President, Dr. Rhona Free, who was one of a few to actually cut the ribbon. "There's such an emphasis on fitness and wellbeing, and that is what this facility offers them."

The O'Connell Center opened to students and student-athletes this past spring. The women's volleyball team has already hosted several matches this season. Men's and women's basketball have used the gym in their offseason workouts, and look forward to seeing the OC filled with fans for the upcoming campaign.

"It's not only exciting for the basketball teams, but also the school," Blue Jays Men's Basketball Head Coach Jim Calhoun told Fox61 Wednesday. "There are so many students coming through here now, and as we start to expand on our athletics and recreation, you're going to get kids that will continue to make this expansion into a very special place."

Calhoun and his squad have quickly grown close to the building and its many supporters. Whether it be the Beekley Center for Student Health and Wellness, or even the Hoffman Lobby, there's something for just about anyone.

"The gymnasium, the physical fitness room, there's all kinds of stuff to look at. Another thing is that the student-athletes hang out here a lot because it's so comfortable, they all get to see each other. It's really a wonderful meeting place, and hopefully a very good winning place as we get into the winter months." Calhoun added.

Men's and women's basketball are expected to kick their seasons off on November 6, with the men's team hosting its season opener inside the now near 800-fan capacity gym, more than double the size of the original OC.

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