Patrick Gym

Patrick Gym is a multi-purpose athletic arena located on the campus of the University of Vermont in Burlington, Vermont. Primarily serving as the home venue for the Vermont Catamounts men's and women's basketball and volleyball teams, the facility is a central hub for NCAA Division I athletics and campus events. Named in honor of former university president Lyman S. Patrick, the gymnasium has been a landmark for Catamounts athletics since its opening in the 1960s.

History

The construction of the arena began in 1960, during a period of significant expansion for the University of Vermont under the leadership of President Carl W. Borgmann. It was officially dedicated and opened for use in 1963, replacing the older Gutterson Fieldhouse as the primary indoor sports venue. The facility was named for Lyman S. Patrick, who served as the university's president from 1940 to 1949 and was instrumental in post-World War II campus development. Throughout its history, it has been intrinsically linked to the growth of the America East Conference and the success of Vermont Catamounts men's basketball.

Architecture and facilities

The original structure is a functional, rectangular arena design typical of mid-20th century collegiate athletic buildings. Its main space is dominated by the competition court, surrounded by bleacher and chair-back seating that creates an intimate and loud environment for NCAA games. Key facilities within the complex include team locker rooms for the Vermont Catamounts, athletic training areas, and administrative offices for the University of Vermont athletics department. The arena is directly connected to the broader Gutterson Fieldhouse complex, which houses the university's NCAA Division I ice hockey rink.

Notable events

Patrick Gym has hosted numerous significant events beyond regular-season America East Conference games. It has been the site for multiple America East Conference Men's Basketball Tournament championships, where the Vermont Catamounts have clinched several bids to the NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament. The venue has also staged concerts, commencement ceremonies for the University of Vermont, and political rallies, including visits by figures like Bernie Sanders. In 2004 and 2005, it served as the host venue for the NCAA Division I women's basketball tournament first and second rounds.

University of Vermont athletics

As the home of Vermont Catamounts men's basketball and Vermont Catamounts women's basketball, the gym is synonymous with the most successful era in the program's history, particularly under coaches like Tom Brennan and John Becker. The arena also hosts the Vermont Catamounts women's volleyball team. The intense atmosphere, often referred to as "The House that Brennan Built," is considered a major home-court advantage and has been featured during broadcasts on networks like ESPN and CBS Sports Network. The success of teams playing here has elevated the profile of the University of Vermont within NCAA Division I.

Renovations and upgrades

The facility has undergone several major renovations to maintain its viability for NCAA Division I competition. A significant upgrade in 2000 expanded concourse areas, improved seating, and updated lighting and sound systems. The most comprehensive renovation began in 2018, funded in part by a lead gift from alumni Tom and Mary Sue Grossman. This project added premium club seating, new video boards, a modernized entrance lobby, and enhanced amenities for athletes and fans, ensuring the arena meets contemporary standards for venues in the America East Conference.

Category:University of Vermont Category:NCAA Division I basketball venues Category:Buildings and structures in Burlington, Vermont Category:Basketball venues in Vermont