Lester French writes:
>       Just a suggestion, but wouldn't it be nice if the University dedicated
>the Shawn Walsh Memorial Rink at Alfond Arena to the coach who brought
>the hockey program to national prominence.  Who would we propose this
>change to?  I'm sure Friends of Maine Hockey would back it.

The tough part is finding the money (to build a new rink -- the current
one is already named).

If more parking were available in the area (could use lawn near
Stillwater River), one might think of an extension to the current
Alfond Arena to house the basketball programs.  If Harold Alfond still
has any money left from selling Dexter Shoe, you rename the complex as
Alfond Forum, the rink as Walsh Rink, and the new basketball arena as
_____ Court (an especially good name if someone named "Food" comes up
with a million or two).

Rumours and talk have abounded in recent years about the athletic
complex expanding into the bike path and nearby trails areas ...
perhaps with access from the bunker (near Shop & Save in Old Town).
Basketball and rec sports are sometimes discussed as new buildings
there.  If the parking could be worked out, the current Alfond area
could really finish off the new College Avenue entrances to the
University ... but since when does parking get considered in any
building project?

Just my thoughts (and no I don't work for U Maine ... just a fan
speculating).

Wayne T. Smith                   Systems Group -- UNET Technology
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