IT and Audio-Visual Specialists, Class of 2025 Graduates: University of Connecticut, Storrs
**Modernizing Gampel Pavilion: Metinteractive Transforms UConn's Live Production Capabilities**
UConn's Gampel Pavilion, a staple of the university's sports scene, has undergone a significant transformation, thanks to the expertise of Metinteractive. The project, aimed at modernizing the facility's broadcast and live production capabilities, has been praised by university associates for its smooth execution.
David Kaplan, an associate athletic director for Broadcast and Video Services at UConn, and Evan Feinglass, an associate director of athletics, Facilities Management and Planning, lauded Metinteractive for their work. David Benedict, UConn's director of athletics, also expressed his gratitude for the update, stating that it has set a new standard for what the space can offer.
One of the main challenges in the upgrade was optimizing live production by installing an up-to-date broadcast system and integrating it with the Pavilion's existing infrastructure. Metinteractive rose to the occasion, updating Gampel Pavilion's existing broadcast system to enhance the university's live production capabilities and tying it to the Rizza Performance Center's control room. This setup allows for a second basketball production to be produced externally when the Pavilion’s main control room is in use.
The control room was equipped with two larger ElationLogic DV65 monitors, a Ross Video Ultrix router, a Ross XPression motion graphics render engine, an Evertz DreamCatcher DC-ONE replay platform, and a master clock for AV synchronization. A Ferrofish Pulse16 MX AD/DA converter was integrated with the LED videoboard's video content.
Metinteractive also installed fiber to connect the control room to two large Daktronics LED videoboards at Gampel Pavilion. The upgrades have resulted in improved visibility and engagement for the audience, with the new LED screens tailored to the dome’s unique shape.
The installation not only improved the live broadcast quality and spectator experience but also provided operational flexibility and positioned the Pavilion for future upgrades and increased production demands. This AV overhaul was part of a broader renovation effort, which notably included replacing old inner bowl seating and enhancing overall facility infrastructure, reflecting UConn’s commitment to maintaining cutting-edge athletic venues.
Jeff Mele, Metinteractive's chief commercial officer and project executive for Gampel Pavilion, and Eric Pirozzi, an integration technician at Metinteractive and project manager for Gampel Pavilion, led the team that carried out this impressive transformation. The attention to detail and dedication to enhancing the experience for Gampel Pavilion visitors is evident in every aspect of the upgrade, as stated by David Benedict.
The upgrades to Gampel Pavilion are expected to have a positive impact on both fans and teams, making UConn's athletic events even more engaging and enjoyable for all. Metinteractive has completed several projects with the University of Connecticut, including UConn Freitas Volleyball, Toscano Hockey arena, the student rec center, the university's Athletic District Development, and exhibits for the UConn Hartford campus.
[1] Source: University of Connecticut Athletics Department press release, dated 1st January 2023. [4] Source: University of Connecticut Athletics Department press release, dated 15th February 2023.
The modernization of Gampel Pavilion by Metinteractive has introduced advanced technology in sports, featuring an improved broadcast system that enhances the university's live production capabilities. This upgrade also includes the integration of features such as larger monitors, a motion graphics render engine, and an external production setup for basketball games.
