The Athletics-Recreation Center, commonly known as the ARC, serves as the premier athletic and recreational facility at Valparaiso University in Valparaiso, Indiana. This 5,000-seat multi-purpose arena opened in 1984 as a $7.25 million expansion project, adding 84,000 square feet to the existing Hilltop Gym for a total complex of 142,000 square feet. The facility has earned a 4.5-star rating from 184 reviews, establishing itself as a valued venue for both university athletics and community events.
The ARC features a main gymnasium oriented with sidelines on the north and south sides and baselines on the east and west ends. The arena includes chairback seating along the north sideline, while the south side houses press row, team benches, and bleacher seating with a balcony section. A central concourse rings the court, providing access to all seating areas and housing portable concession stands, with an additional concession area located behind the east baseline.
Recent facility upgrades completed in summer 2023 include installation of a new Daktronics high-definition video board above center court, new LED lighting to enhance the fan experience, and new side scoreboards. The seating capacity can be expanded from 5,000 to approximately 6,000 by adding seating to the east side, with architectural design allowing for future expansion up to 10,000 seats.
The ARC serves as the home court for Valparaiso Beacons men’s and women’s basketball teams, as well as the volleyball team. The arena court bears the name Homer Drew Court, dedicated in October 2010 to honor Dr. Homer Drew, Valpo’s all-time winningest men’s basketball coach who led the team to 371 wins and seven NCAA Tournament appearances, including a Sweet 16 run in 1998.
The facility has hosted numerous significant sporting events, including three rounds of the 2016 NIT culminating in a quarterfinal win over Saint Mary’s that set a building attendance record of 5,444 fans. The ARC has also welcomed postseason events including the 2002 WNIT quarterfinals featuring Houston, and multiple conference tournament finals.
The ARC originated from a 1978-1979 student survey that identified an overwhelming need for improved recreational facilities on campus. Ground was broken on April 23, 1983, following comprehensive university planning and designation as a priority capital component. The first men’s basketball game was played on November 27, 1984, against Western Michigan University, with the dedication game held December 9, 1984, against Notre Dame.
Hilltop Gym, which dates to 1939 and serves as part of the ARC complex, previously hosted notable figures including Larry Bird during his Indiana State career and Robert F. Kennedy during his presidential campaign. Following a 2005 renovation, Hilltop now serves as a practice facility with new flooring, lighting, and windows.
The complex includes the Mosak Performance Center, a weight room facility specifically designed for varsity athletes with customized weight lifting equipment. The facility features a nine-lap-per-mile running track situated between arena levels, providing recreational opportunities for students and faculty.
Additional amenities include upgraded locker rooms, staff offices, and classrooms that serve the broader university community. The facility houses numerous trophy and award display cases and the Hall of Champions, which features photos of every Valpo conference championship team.
Beyond athletics, the ARC serves as a popular venue for university and community events. The facility regularly hosts graduation ceremonies, with reviewers noting the clean, well-managed environment and professional, friendly staff. The arena’s versatile design accommodates large gatherings and special events.
Concession services include hot dogs, popcorn, beverages, and Budweiser products. The facility maintains reasonable pricing for both tickets and concessions, making events accessible to families and students.
The ARC creates an intimate basketball atmosphere that reviewers describe as “electric” and providing a “true home field advantage.” The compact design places spectators close to the action, with every seat offering good sightlines. The student section behind the west baseline and pep band seating contribute to the energetic environment during games.
While some reviewers note that bleacher seating can be cramped and reminiscent of a high school gymnasium, the facility’s charm lies in its throwback design and passionate fan support. Accessibility features include half-steps on bleachers to assist visitors with mobility challenges.
As an integral part of Valparaiso University, the ARC serves multiple educational and recreational functions beyond athletics. The facility includes computer labs, video rooms, team lounges, and coaching offices within the Schrage Basketball Wing, completed in 1999. The comprehensive design supports both competitive athletics and general campus recreation needs.
The ARC represents a successful blend of athletic competition, student recreation, and community gathering space, maintaining its role as a central hub for university life and regional sporting events.
The Athletics-Recreation Center, commonly known as the ARC, serves as the premier athletic and recreational facility at Valparaiso University in Valparaiso, Indiana. This 5,000-seat multi-purpose arena opened in 1984 as a $7.25 million expansion project, adding 84,000 square feet to the existing Hilltop Gym for a total complex of 142,000 square feet. The facility has earned a 4.5-star rating from 184 reviews, establishing itself as a valued venue for both university athletics and community events.
The ARC features a main gymnasium oriented with sidelines on the north and south sides and baselines on the east and west ends. The arena includes chairback seating along the north sideline, while the south side houses press row, team benches, and bleacher seating with a balcony section. A central concourse rings the court, providing access to all seating areas and housing portable concession stands, with an additional concession area located behind the east baseline.
Recent facility upgrades completed in summer 2023 include installation of a new Daktronics high-definition video board above center court, new LED lighting to enhance the fan experience, and new side scoreboards. The seating capacity can be expanded from 5,000 to approximately 6,000 by adding seating to the east side, with architectural design allowing for future expansion up to 10,000 seats.
The ARC serves as the home court for Valparaiso Beacons men’s and women’s basketball teams, as well as the volleyball team. The arena court bears the name Homer Drew Court, dedicated in October 2010 to honor Dr. Homer Drew, Valpo’s all-time winningest men’s basketball coach who led the team to 371 wins and seven NCAA Tournament appearances, including a Sweet 16 run in 1998.
The facility has hosted numerous significant sporting events, including three rounds of the 2016 NIT culminating in a quarterfinal win over Saint Mary’s that set a building attendance record of 5,444 fans. The ARC has also welcomed postseason events including the 2002 WNIT quarterfinals featuring Houston, and multiple conference tournament finals.
The ARC originated from a 1978-1979 student survey that identified an overwhelming need for improved recreational facilities on campus. Ground was broken on April 23, 1983, following comprehensive university planning and designation as a priority capital component. The first men’s basketball game was played on November 27, 1984, against Western Michigan University, with the dedication game held December 9, 1984, against Notre Dame.
Hilltop Gym, which dates to 1939 and serves as part of the ARC complex, previously hosted notable figures including Larry Bird during his Indiana State career and Robert F. Kennedy during his presidential campaign. Following a 2005 renovation, Hilltop now serves as a practice facility with new flooring, lighting, and windows.
The complex includes the Mosak Performance Center, a weight room facility specifically designed for varsity athletes with customized weight lifting equipment. The facility features a nine-lap-per-mile running track situated between arena levels, providing recreational opportunities for students and faculty.
Additional amenities include upgraded locker rooms, staff offices, and classrooms that serve the broader university community. The facility houses numerous trophy and award display cases and the Hall of Champions, which features photos of every Valpo conference championship team.
Beyond athletics, the ARC serves as a popular venue for university and community events. The facility regularly hosts graduation ceremonies, with reviewers noting the clean, well-managed environment and professional, friendly staff. The arena’s versatile design accommodates large gatherings and special events.
Concession services include hot dogs, popcorn, beverages, and Budweiser products. The facility maintains reasonable pricing for both tickets and concessions, making events accessible to families and students.
The ARC creates an intimate basketball atmosphere that reviewers describe as “electric” and providing a “true home field advantage.” The compact design places spectators close to the action, with every seat offering good sightlines. The student section behind the west baseline and pep band seating contribute to the energetic environment during games.
While some reviewers note that bleacher seating can be cramped and reminiscent of a high school gymnasium, the facility’s charm lies in its throwback design and passionate fan support. Accessibility features include half-steps on bleachers to assist visitors with mobility challenges.
As an integral part of Valparaiso University, the ARC serves multiple educational and recreational functions beyond athletics. The facility includes computer labs, video rooms, team lounges, and coaching offices within the Schrage Basketball Wing, completed in 1999. The comprehensive design supports both competitive athletics and general campus recreation needs.
The ARC represents a successful blend of athletic competition, student recreation, and community gathering space, maintaining its role as a central hub for university life and regional sporting events.
