UM Breaks Ground On Ryder Center

April 4, 2001

CORAL GABLES, FL – The University of Miami ushers in a new era as itbreaks ground today on the Ryder Center, the future home of Miami men’sand women’s basketball and the University’s first large-capacity venue forother educational, cultural, and community events. Participating in thegroundbreaking event are UM President Edward T. Foote II, Chairman of theUM Board of Trustees Carlos de la Cruz Sr., benefactor Dr. Edward Dauer,and UM coaches and players.

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The $48 million facility, totally funded through private donations,is scheduled for completion for the 2002-2003 men’s and women’s basketballseasons. With seating for 7,000, the Ryder Center will provide theUniversity and the Coral Gables community with a facility designed for awide array of uses. The facility is conveniently located close to theUniversity Metrorail Station off Ponce de Leon Boulevard.

“The Ryder Center will not only enhance Hurricane Basketball,” saidUM’s Athletic Director Paul Dee, “but it will also benefit the entirecommunity. And, it is being built solely through private funds. We areextremely grateful to the corporate leaders and individual donors who havemade the Ryder Center a reality.”

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Dee said Ryder System, Inc. and the family of Edward Dauer, whodonated the lead gifts, provided the impetus for the 200,000 square footfacility. UM’s Ryder Center campaign began in 1995 with a $9 million giftfrom Ryder System, Inc. In 1998, UM received a $2 million gift for thefacility from Joanne and Edward Dauer, Gail and Roger Dauer and their latemother, Reva Dauer.

“When completed, the Ryder Center will provide UM with a much neededfocal point for campus activities,” Dee said.

For information Hurricane Basketball tickets, call 1-800-GO-CANES.For more information, visit /ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=28700&ATCLID=205559440.