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Wachovia Center
Home of the Philadelphia 76ers
In 1988, Ed Snider decided to pursue his dream of building a new home for the Philadelphia Flyers and the 76ers. Less than a decade later, in 1996, the doors opened at CoreStates Center, which is now recognized as Wachovia Center.
In August 1996, the official ribbon cutting ceremony was held with Gene Hart, voice of the Flyers, served as master of ceremonies. Ed Snider had the honor of actually cutting the ribbon as Bob Clark, president of the Flyers, and Pat Croce, president of the 76ers, held the ribbon. Everyone who attended the ceremony was happy to have received a commemorative coin.
A crowd of 19,500 cheering spectators attended Wachovia Center's inaugural event, which was a World Cup Hockey game. A wide variety of other events are held at the facility on an annual basis, including concerts, sporting events, family events and shows.
Many great moments have occurred at the Wachovia Center. In June 2001, more than 20,000 fans packed the center to see the 76ers battle against the Lakers in the NBA Finals Game 3. This event marked the 76ers first return to the finals since their 1983 championship season.
In 2003, Wachovia Center was recognized in an official name change of the venue. On that evening, the American Idols Live Tour performance was recognized as the first event in the officially renamed Wachovia Center.
Fans attending an event at the Wachovia Center can enjoy shopping at Fan Gear, which is the facility's official retail store. Fans can enjoy browsing a variety of officially licensed collectibles, apparel and souvenirs. Shopping is located on the Main Concourse Level and adorns over 1,600 square feet of bargains. Fan Gear offers Flyers, 76ers and other event-related collectibles and merchandise.
Fans who want to become a permanent part of the Wachovia Center history can order a brick with their, or that of their loved ones, name engraved. The walkway at the Wachovia Center is constructed of 4x8 rocks of immortality called The Yankee Hill. Bricks range from $75.00 to $100.00 and will forever remain on The Walk. An official certificate will be given after a brick order is placed.
Thousands of fans visit the Wachovia Center every year. Some enjoy premium seating, including luxury suites or club boxes. Others find their seat among the thousands located throughout the arena. No matter where the seat, fans will enjoy an event that will give them memories of a lifetime.
© 2006 Baseballparkonline.com - All rights reserved.
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