On July 1, the University of New Haven began the transition to Division I athletics, however its facilities haven’t…yet.
Following the university’s announcement of a transition into Division I athletics, it received a $5 million gift from alumnus Jeffery P. Hazell ‘83, ‘10, the largest individual contribution to the university’s athletics department. The funds are designated for helping with the operational costs tied to the transition and for “continued renovations and improvements” to the Jeffrey P. Hazell Center, the university’s game site for basketball and volleyball.
The center used to be known as the Charger Gymnasium, however it was renamed in 2022 following a $3 million gift from Hazell which allowed earlier renovations.
Hazell’s philanthropic commitment will support a number of transformations during renovations, including refurbished locker rooms, increased seating capacity, new viewing areas and more.
“I believe in the University of New Haven, and I believe in what Charger athletics can become,” said Hazell. “Moving to Division I will raise the University’s profile, energize the campus community, and create new opportunities for our students. I’m proud to help make that happen.”
The renovations are expected following the start of the men’s basketball season, as the New Haven Chargers played the UCONN Huskies and Penn State Nittany Lions, whose basketball arenas hold roughly 10,000 and over 12,000 spectators. The Jeffrey P. Hazell center currently holds less than 900.
“This extraordinary gift from Jeff Hazell is a game-changer for our university and a catalyst for the bold future of Charger athletics,” said university President Jens Frederiksen. “His leadership, generosity, and belief in our vision for Division I will benefit generations of student-athletes and lift our entire community. We are deeply grateful for his continued commitment.”
The renovation is expected to not only benefit Charger events, but Charger morale as well. “I believe that renovating the Hazell Athletic Center is an amazing move that will add an exclamation mark to the fact that we are a D1 program, with D1 athletes in a D1 facility.” said women’s basketball player Merit Innocent. “A new renovated gym would be a great morale boost for the athletes and the students/fans who come support the teams at home games.”
This optimism is a shared sentiment among the team. “The vision for the new center makes me excited about the future of the chargers, and I think it will bring a lot of attention to athletics,” said teammate Lindsay Hogan. “I think the new arena will attract new fans and generate more excitement around the program.”
The center has also hosted a number of other events in the past such as the Special Olympics, New Haven Convocations, a number of musical concerts and camps and clinics for the surrounding community, among other events which this move is expected to improve should they be hosted there again
Should everything go to plan, the university’s transition to Division I will be more than just a label.
