LEWISTON – From now on, it’s the Androscoggin Bank Colisee.
The announcement of a multi-year naming rights partnership with Androscoggin Bank took place Monday afternoon at the multi-purpose venue, which is home to the Lewiston Maineiacs hockey team.
“Androscoggin Bank is clearly the right fit and we are very pleased that such a well-known and highly-respected banking institution would link its name with us,” said Colisee board chairman Norm Rousseau.
“The agreement also results in Androscoggin Bank providing all banking services, as well as being involved in future capital investments at the facility,” he said.
“The Androscoggin Bank’s Colisee has evolved into a top-notch sports and entertainment venue and bookings at this date are well ahead, compared to last year,” Rousseau said.
Steven A. Closson, president and CEO of Androscoggin Bank, said the bank’s history in the community goes back to 1870. “We’re very excited to have this opportunity to partner with the city … in its efforts to promote economic growth. We are proud to have our name associated with this community asset – a prime venue for arts, sports and family entertainment.”
Androscoggin Bank is a privately-held financial services company with 12 branches.
Matt McKnight, vice president and governor of the Lewiston Maineiacs, a Quebec Major Junior Hockey League team, said Androscoggin Bank’s opportunities for branding with its name on the facility extends not only to area communities but also “to the 58 markets that are served by the Canadian Hockey League.”
He said the banks’ decision on naming rights “is indicative of the positive momentum that both the Lewiston Maineiacs and the Colisee are seeing right now.”
Phil Nadeau, deputy city administrator in Lewiston, said the Maine Turnpike Authority has agreed that the new name can be posted on signs near Lewiston exits where signs have said only “Sports Complex.”
Design of the Androscoggin Bank Colisee logo and signs are expected before the first day of Maineiacs play in early October. The naming rights include signs for the exterior of the building, the food court and the stadium.
The Colisee is the site of the Ali-Liston heavyweight championship fight in 1965 when it was known as St. Dominic Arena.
The city assumed ownership in 2004 and, within months, invested $1.5 million in renovations. Improvements included a three-floor glass facade, a third-floor party room and event space and a second-floor concession stand. A ticket counter, offices and a pro shop were installed on the the first floor.
The facility has seating for 3,700 at hockey games and up to 4,500 for concerts, family shows and other events.
Its parking lot was paved in 2003.
Eighteen months ago, the city began looking for a company that would agree to a 10-year name commitment for a minimum of $75,000 per year. On Monday, Rousseau said details, such as the number of years of the agreement, are still to be worked out with Androscoggin Bank.
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