Kansas Celebrates 50 Years of Allen Fieldhouse with a Celebration Friday Night
Feb. 25, 2005
LAWRENCE, Kan. –
More than 700 guests descended on Allen Fieldhouse to celebrate its 50th year of existence Friday night.
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Men’s and women’s players from all five decades of the facility, former coaches and administrators were just a few of those present at the celebration on the floor of the Fieldhouse, which was converted into a stage. Included were the current KU men’s basketball team and coaching staff.
Longtime radio voice of Kansas athletics Max Falkenstien, who is in his 59th season calling Kansas basketball, was the emcee for the gala. University of Kansas Chancellor Robert Hemenway and Kansas governor Kathleen Sebelius addressed the group, which was entertained by the band, cheerleaders and Jayhawk mascots during the reception portion of the evening.
“It’s a great building but it’s the people that make it truly special,” said KU Director of Athletics Lew Perkins who also addressed the group.
Those gathered were entertained with stories and videos about the facility and the person it was named after, Dr. F.C. “Phog” Allen. The winningest coach in KU history, Allen amassed a 590-219 record from 1907-09 and 1919-56. Allen played for the inventor of the game Dr. James Naismith, KU’s first coach.
“The atmosphere of Allen Fieldhouse can stand on its own and so can the history,” Governor Sebelius said. “We have a true Kansas treasure right here.”
Distinguished guests included members from the Phog Allen family, former KU coach Ted Owens and Martha Sue Harp, widow of former KU coach Dick Harp.
