Charles L. Sewall Center: The Legacy of 'The Chuck'
For over three decades, the Charles L. Sewall Center served as the beating heart of athletics for Robert Morris University. Located in Moon Township, Pennsylvania, this multi-purpose arena was affectionately known by students and fans as "The Chuck." From its opening in the mid-1980s to its eventual demolition, the center provided a home for collegiate sports and hosted significant regional competitions.
The facility was named in honor of the university's president, who led the institution from 1967 to 1989. Upon its completion in 1985, it replaced the previous athletic venue, the John Jay Center, marking a new era for the university's sports programs.
A Hub for Colonial Athletics
The Sewall Center was designed as a versatile space with a seating capacity of 3,056. It primarily served as the home court for the Robert Morris Colonials men's and women's basketball teams, as well as the women's volleyball team. The arena's history began on November 30, 1985, with an inaugural game in which Robert Morris faced Duquesne, ultimately losing 80-65.
Beyond regular-season games, the venue gained prestige by hosting the Northeast Conference (NEC) men's basketball tournament on four separate occasions, cementing its place as a key site for collegiate athletics in the Pittsburgh suburb.
Transition to the UPMC Events Center
As the needs of the university grew, plans for a modern facility began to emerge. In 2010, Robert Morris University first announced intentions to either expand the existing structure or construct a brand new arena. By January 19, 2017, the university confirmed that the Sewall Center would be demolished to make room for a state-of-the-art replacement.
The successor, the UPMC Events Center, represented a significant upgrade in scale and utility. This new 140,000 square foot building featured an expanded 4,000-seat arena to accommodate growing crowds and modern athletic requirements.
The Sewall Center hosted its final event—a volleyball tournament—on September 15–16, 2017, shortly before demolition crews began work on the site.
Key Facts
- Location: Moon Township, Pennsylvania (40.520212°N, 80.21476°W).
- Capacity: 3,056 seats.
- Operational Years: 1985 to 2017.
- Primary Tenants: Robert Morris Colonials basketball (men's and women's) and women's volleyball.
- Major Events: Hosted the Northeast Conference men's basketball tournament four times.
- Replacement: The UPMC Events Center (140,000 sq ft, 4,000 seats).
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Nickname | "The Chuck" |
| Inaugural Game Date | November 30, 1985 |
| Preceding Facility | John Jay Center |
| Final Event Date | September 15–16, 2017 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Sewall Center's nickname?
The Charles L. Sewall Center was commonly nicknamed "The Chuck."
Which sports teams played at the Sewall Center?
The arena was the home of the Robert Morris Colonials men's basketball, women's basketball, and women's volleyball teams.
Who was the building named after?
The center was named for the president of Robert Morris University who served from 1967 to 1989.
What replaced the Sewall Center?
The facility was replaced by the UPMC Events Center, a 140,000 square foot building with a 4,000-seat arena.
When did the Sewall Center close?
The center held its final event, a volleyball tournament, on September 15–16, 2017, after which it was demolished.