Despite being a rabid fan of UD for decades (spending many years living in the area as a kid) I bring a new set of eyes to the UD campus having a D attending today. I'm reading about our challenges recruiting 4* players, the spotty at times attendance of students, etc.
I have posted before that I view the Arena/practice facility upgrades & the campus itself as world class, able to compare with any program. The small downtown also nicely compliments the campus. Leaving our A-10 affiliation out of the discussion, the one thing missing from the total curb appeal package is the lack of transition/walking access from campus to the Arena. Note that its just not the basketball arena there, there is also a football stadium, baseball & softball diamonds, etc.
1.6 miles separate the arena from campus, and while the MBB season is in winter and thus walking may not be a real option most games, I believe the university could do something to cost-effectively (perhaps with the city) make the connection much more attractive. Perhaps a "boulevard-like" string of trees, benches, access to the river, a bike/jogging path, engage our corporate partners some of whom have offices along this path. Maybe encourage some entrepreneur small businesses like a restaurant or pub. We pull this off and upgrade our conference and there is no stopping us.
(I know the fairground is an asset that could someday also tie into this).
Anyway, just sayin....
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