Long Beach State University Athletics
A Tribute To The Hardwood Of Walter Pyramid
6/11/2014 12:00:00 AM | General
June 11, 2014
After a marvelous 20-plus year run, Long Beach State Athletics says goodbye to the trusty floor of Walter Pyramid. The original hardwood that was laid down when the Pyramid opened in 1994 will be torn up this week and replaced with new flooring.
"I have been painted, sanded, waxed and dusted for too long," the floor could be heard murmuring before demolition began. "I can no longer take the day-to-day grind and beating. Thank you for all the spikes, dribbles and dunks. Mainly, thanks for the memories!"
If these slats of hardwood could talk, the people of Long Beach would line up to listen. It has supported the training and been the stage for numerous All-Americans and more conference titles than you can count on your fingers and toes.
Nationally-ranked and eventual national championship teams have pounded on its changing surface. It has been honored to provide the playing surface of USA national teams, housed concerts and speakers, and generously supported physical education classes for all Long Beach State students.
Yes, the stories that this floor could tell could go on for years about the great teams and the great moments. It could list the numerous All-Americans to stride over it and recall every buzzer-beating win, blowout victory and every defeat. It could also tell you all about the special events, like the Jewels of the Night, and all about every club tournament and every basketball class.
Some people could relive the greatest moments in Long Beach State with the floor of Walter Pyramid but no one could tell the whole story like the floor could. Not just the shining moments in front of the big crowds. No, the floor could tell you about all the blood, sweat and tears shed on the way to those marquee moments. It could recall all the heartbreak as easily as the moments of elation.
So, we bid farewell with utmost respect to the floor of Walter Pyramid. We thank you for the decades of service to our student-athletes and to the greater Long Beach community. We are now left to wonder what type of memories will we make on the new hardwood that becomes the face of The Beach?
