Explaining the Challenge
Donors can double the impact of their gift by taking advantage of the Schickler Challenge, and multi-year pledges are eligible for the matching gift. For example, a $30,000 pledge over three years allows a donor to double his/her impact to $60,000 and the multi-year pledge creates the flexibility to pay the gift over time. To discuss a multi-year pledge, please contact Matt Lyons at matt.lyons@drake.edu or at 515-271-4628.
PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS
The Knapp Center Renovation Project will transform the gameday experience for Bulldog fans beginning with enhancements to seating, hospitality, premium seating options, and concessions. The environment created by these enhancements aligns with our student-athletes uncompromising commitment to excellence and pursuit of championships. The Schickler Challenge allowed donors to have their gift doubled to the Knapp Center Renovation Project, so long as the pledge is made by December 2nd, 2021. In 2022, Drake Athletics started the Lacy Challenge allowing donors to double the impact of their gift to the Knapp Center Renovation Project, so long as the pledge is made by June 30th, 2023.
premium Seating
Exclusive and private seating options with amenities for you and all your guests
enhanced gameday
Improved gameday experience for all fans with improved seating and amenities like upgraded concessions
Home court advantage
​Adding seats to the corner of the lower level will not only make for a more intimate gathering but also intensify the atmosphere of the Knapp Center
Sports MedicinE
New athletic training and hydrotherapy space to be located near the locker rooms of men’s and women’s basketball and volleyball teams, which will alleviate strain on current training room
ARENA RENDERINGS
NEW VIDEO RING & SOUND SYSTEM
Drake Athletics is working with Daktronics on significant digital enhancements in the Knapp Center that will provide a great atmosphere for the university and its fans. A new state-of-the-art center hung ring display will improve the overall fan experience and increase engagement at our basketball and volleyball contests. The unique focal point of the installation will be the LED ring display, a single ring-shaped display hanging above the center of the court. The new main display will provide excellent image clarity and contrast for student-athletes and fans throughout the Knapp Center.
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NEW LOWER LEVEL SEATING
All lower level seating will be replaced and corners will be filled in creating a true lower-level bowl. Handrails will be added to all lower-level aisles in the first phase and the center sections on the north and south sides will have wider, cushioned seating.
LOGE BOXES
New premium seating option in southeast and northeast corners of lower level with intimate views of the action. Can hold up to six lounge seats.
Corner Club Seating
Corner premium seating spaces offers a gameday experience to entertain up to 16 guests at high-top tables and standing-room options.
BAR & LOUNGE
A large new sports bar-themed gathering area for Drake Athletics donors is planned in the NE corner of the Knapp Center. The new lounge area will feature flat screen televisions, a bar area, and a food service area. The new lounge area will serve a variety of drinks and be open for all basketball home games and other select events. Access to the new lounge will be available during basketball seasons for the Drake Athletics donors. Timing and installation of the new lounge area is dependent on fundraising.
THE LACY CHALLENGE
To encourage philanthropic support of the Knapp Center Renovation Project, Steve and Cathy Lacy will match every gift to this project up to $625,000 between November 1st, 2022, and June 30th, 2023. Donors could double the impact of their gift by taking advantage of the Lacy Challenge, and multi-year pledges are eligible for the matching gift.
PROJECT DETAILS
The Knapp Center has been a great home for Drake’s men’s and women’s basketball and volleyball teams since 1992. However, the building has not seen any significant structural upgrades since it went into service over 30 years ago. Over the next two summers, the Knapp Center Renovation Project will transform the gameday atmosphere for Bulldog fans and improve the experiences for our student-athletes.
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The initial phase of the Knapp Center Renovation Project will:
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Improve seating in the lower bowl of the arena
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Create a new hospitality space
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Develop a sports medicine center for our basketball and volleyball programs.
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The second phase of the project will focus on:
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New video ring display
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New sound system
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Enhancements to the atrium
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Improvements to upper-level seating
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Help position Drake Athletics for continued success by supporting the Knapp Center Renovation Project.