Imagine a time before smart phones. Imagine a time before computers dominated every aspect of life. That was the era when Gregory Gymnasium was the undisputed heart of campus life.
Gregory Gymnasium stands here as more than just a building. It is a monument to the spirit of the University of Texas at Austin. It is a testament to the enduring power of community.
In 1928, a fire destroyed the university’s first basketball gymnasium. T.W. Gregory spearheaded a fundraising effort for a new facility. This led to the construction of Gregory Gymnasium.
Built in 1930 at a cost of $500,000, Gregory Gym was named after Thomas Watt Gregory. He was an alumnus, a University Regent, and a former U.S. Attorney General. December 5, 1930, marked Texas’ inaugural men’s basketball game in this very building.
The late 1920s saw an expansion of plans. A women’s gym and student union were added to the project. Despite the Great Depression, the Texas Exes contributed over $600,000. This helped build Gregory Gym, the Texas Union, Anna Hiss Gym, and Hogg Auditorium.
From 1930 to 1951, Gregory Gym was home to Fight Night. This annual boxing event drew huge crowds. Varsity basketball games and intramural competitions further cemented the gym’s reputation.
By the 1950s and 60s, Gregory Gymnasium transformed into a cultural hub. It hosted speakers, authors, and performers. T.S. Eliot gave poetry readings here. Jazz legends like Louis Armstrong and Count Basie performed.
In 1977, the men’s basketball team moved to the Erwin Center. This ended 46 years of basketball history here. The move altered the dynamic of campus athletics.
Gregory Gymnasium underwent a major renovation in 1997. The 22-month project modernized the facilities. Natural lighting, lounge areas, and central air-conditioning were added.
Today, Gregory Gym is a 265,610 square foot facility at 2101 Speedway. It offers a wide range of activities. These include badminton, basketball, and rock climbing. There is also a jogging track, racquetball courts, and a weight room. All university students can use the gymnasium for free.
Gregory Gymnasium also houses seven basketball or nine volleyball courts. You’ll find handball, racquetball, and wallyball courts. There are squash courts, weight training areas, and dance rooms. Steam rooms and saunas offer relaxation.
Gregory Gymnasium is currently home to the University of Texas Longhorn women’s volleyball team. The record attendance was set on December 10, 2022. 5,344 fans watched Texas play Ohio State.
Gregory Gymnasium is a place of constant activity. From student recreation to competitive sports, it remains a vital part of campus life. Gregory Gym stands as a living monument to the university’s history.