This isn’t just any new building; the BSC Bavendick Center is going to be a game-changer! Imagine a place where every BSC student—past, present, and future—can come together to compete, connect and celebrate like never before and a facility that will elevate athletics to the next level for our communities’ athletes and fans. Whether it’s catching a Mystics game in the 2000-seat stadium, joining a rec league, or enjoying a variety of campus events, this facility will have it all.

Student-Led Initiative

On Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023, BSC received the student body's approval of a plan to build a new 80,000-square-foot multipurpose student and athletic facility that will be home to Mystics collegiate sports, recreational activities and campus events.

Earlier in the year, the BSC Student Government Association (SGA) passed a resolution supporting the construction of a new facility and organized a September student vote to increase the current mandatory student fee beginning in Fall 2025 to pay for a portion of human performance center costs. The SGA cited facility accessibility and equitability as the motivators driving their initiative.

#MysticPride

A generous lead gift from the Frank and Joanne Bavendick family, coupled with student fees and additional community and employee donations, will provide the funds to construct the new $40 million facility.

 Frank Bavendick was a student-athlete at BSC in 1949-50. Following graduation, he became a faithful Mystics fan, fostering a lifetime of friendships with BSC and its students. Over the years, Frank attended many volleyball and basketball games at the BSC Armory, a tradition his son and daughter-in-law Greg and Yvette have carried on. Frank was often known to stop by and chat with the coaches and Mystics athletes – even working out with them in the weight room. During those visits, Frank often talked of a need for a new athletic facility for the growing college. 

 The Bavendick family’s contribution to this project ensures that Frank’s dream becomes a reality and that his Mystic pride will forever be remembered with a campus facility that will proudly carry his name.

The Game Plan

The Bavendick Center is positioned on the BSC campus to overlook the MDU Resources Community Bowl and the Missouri River. It will seat approximately 2,000 screaming Mystics fans, which is roughly four times larger than the current home of Mystics athletics. 

• The new Bavendick Center will be home to Mystics basketball, volleyball, wrestling, esports competitions, and athletic training areas
• The facility will also include:
  • A student hub
  • Intramural sports
  • An indoor walking track
  • Rock-climbing walls
  • A virtual reality sports simulator
• Other uses for the arena space include:
  • On-campus graduation ceremonies
  • Entertainment performances
  • Gym space to host sports camps and tournaments