Von Braun Center unveils $2M Propst Arena upgrade

The Von Braun Center (VBC) took center stage on Monday, October 21, 2024, as it revealed a series of new enhancements to the Propst Arena during the Huntsville Havoc’s annual Meet the Team event.

More than 3,000 fans, including Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle, were present to experience the unveiling, marking a significant moment for both the arena and its community.

One of the key highlights of the evening was the debut of two oversized Daktronics digital videoboards, mounted on both ends of the arena.

With a project investment of $2 million, these state-of-the-art boards are set to redefine the visual experience for fans. Each board stands an impressive 22 feet tall and 75 feet wide, boasting over 4.2 million pixels with high-definition clarity, thanks to their 5.9 mm pixel pitch display.

These upgrades are designed to enhance fan engagement, offering dynamic content like instant replays, game stats, and high-quality advertising opportunities.

In addition to previewing the videoboards, attendees were given a behind-the-scenes tour of the arena’s backstage areas, including the star dressing rooms, where performers and athletes prepare for events.

The tour also featured a unique open house experience, complete with dessert displays and interactive games like ping pong and shuffleboard.

Since its partnership with the Huntsville Havoc began in 2004, the VBC has continuously updated the Propst Arena, making it one of the most advanced facilities in the Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL).

According to VBC Executive Director Steve Maples, the arena’s evolution over nearly five decades remains a vital part of Huntsville’s live entertainment scene.

“This arena has been the focal point of live events in Huntsville for almost 50 years,” Maples said. “From Johnny Cash performing here in 1975 to the thousands of graduates who’ve walked across its stage, Propst Arena has always been a place where our community comes together to create lasting memories.”

The newly installed videoboards continue that tradition, enhancing the fan experience while providing advertisers with nearly limitless options to showcase their brands. With the ability to stream multiple content types, the boards will ensure fans enjoy a more immersive and interactive experience at events.

Over the years, the VBC Propst Arena has seen seven major renovations. Recent upgrades include the installation of a cutting-edge LED lighting system in 2019, new backstage facilities in 2021, and a complete overhaul of the arena’s exterior in 2022. The 2023 season also brought a brand-new audio system to the venue.

“These improvements are not just about enhancing performances,” said Maples, “but about ensuring the VBC remains a cornerstone of downtown Huntsville that our community can be proud of for another 50 years.”

The VBC’s focus on maintaining a world-class facility has garnered national attention, with the arena being featured on major broadcasts, including ESPN’s SEC Network during the SEC Gymnastics Championships, and in events like the Lee Greenwood All-Star Salute.

As for the Huntsville Havoc, the team is coming off a strong 2023-2024 season, having advanced to the President’s Cup Finals.

In addition to their on-ice success, the Havoc continues to make a positive impact off the ice, raising over $313,000 for local charities last season, bringing their total charitable contributions over the past 20 years to more than $2.5 million.

“We’re thrilled to have the Havoc as a partner,” said Maples. “Their dedicated fan base continues to energize Propst Arena, and we can’t wait to see how these new upgrades will elevate the experience for everyone this season.”

For more information on the Von Braun Center and Huntsville Havoc, visit www.vonbrauncenter.com.