Driving Sports Tourism, Environmental Sustainability, and Student Engagement at UW-Eau Claire
The opening of The Sonnentag in September 2024 marks a transformative moment for the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire (UW-Eau Claire) and the Chippewa Valley. This 225,000 gross square foot, state-of-the-art sports, recreation, entertainment, and wellness complex is set to redefine the region’s cultural, athletic, and community landscape.
A Vision Realized
John and Carolyn Sonnentag, UW-Eau Claire alumni, turned their vision of an event center into reality through a generous donation of cash and land valued at $70 million – the largest in the university’s history. This $122 million project was further supported by financial and in-kind contributions from UW–Eau Claire students, the Pablo Foundation, Xcel Energy, the City of Eau Claire, and additional partners.
The Sonnentag provides UW–Eau Claire students, faculty, staff, and community members access to a world-class venue capable of attracting national events and competitions. The facility is expected to invigorate the region, creating new opportunities for economic and social engagement.
Managed by CENTERS, LLC
UW-Eau Claire selected CENTERS, a leading organization with extensive experience in operating multi-use venues, to operate The Sonnentag. CENTERS is responsible for ensuring that the needs of all stakeholders—students, faculty, staff, community members, and partners—are met. Their role involves managing diverse interests, building relationships, and delivering programs and services that benefit both the university and the wider community.
The Sonnentag is home to:
- The Sonnentag Event Center
- The John and Carolyn Sonnentag Fieldhouse
- Blugold Athletics
- UW-Eau Claire’s Center for Health and Wellbeing
- Mayo Clinic Health System Diagnostic Imaging and Sports Medicine Center
By expertly balancing the demands of these stakeholders, CENTERS ensures The Sonnentag operates as a vibrant and multifunctional facility, contributing to the university’s mission while fostering community engagement.
Grand Opening Celebrations
The opening of The Sonnentag was marked by a week of events that showcased its capabilities:
- Open Houses: Students, faculty, staff, and community members explored the facility’s many features, including athletic spaces, wellness facilities, and recreational areas.
- Comedy Performance by Brian Regan: Nationally recognized comedian Brian Regan entertained a large audience.
- Tribute to First Responders: A heartfelt event honored the sacrifices of first responders on the anniversary of September 11.
- Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony: The formal opening of the complex, attended by the Sonnentag Family, university, and the Eau Claire community, officially commenced operations.
- Chris Young Concert: Country music star Chris Young performed to a packed audience, showcasing The Sonnentag as a premier entertainment venue. The evening kicked off with a captivating performance by special guest Mackenzie Carpenter, setting the stage for a night of outstanding music.
- Sandy Schumacher Memorial Tournament: UW-Eau Claire’s women’s volleyball team hosted this highly competitive tournament, drawing teams and spectators from across the region. The Blugolds delivered an impressive performance, finishing the weekend undefeated in all matches.
A Commitment to Sustainability
A defining characteristic of The Sonnentag is its commitment to environmental sustainability. The facility has achieved LEED Gold Certification and the WELL Health-Safety Rating, making the university a leader in green building and wellness design. The Sonnentag is the largest Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) gold-certified facility of its type in Wisconsin and Minnesota, and the third largest in the Midwest, according to the U.S. Green Building Council.
Sustainability highlights include: 
- 190 vertical geothermal wells using 36 miles of piping to heat and cool the building
- LED lighting throughout
- Green vehicle parking and electric vehicle charging stations
- Fully electric building powered by a local, off-site solar facility
- Redevelopment of brownfield site
- Improved building performance achieved with greater insulation, energy-efficient wall systems, and high-performance window and door systems
- Building automation system providing high levels of electrical and mechanical building system control, tracks performance to adjust and improve over time
- Heavy use of native plantings and non-irrigated landscape
- Removal of 80% of total suspended solids from storm water runoff
These efforts reflect UW-Eau Claire’s commitment to sustainable practices. The LEED certification process was initiated and supported by students. The project demonstrates the university’s leadership in addressing climate change and promoting green infrastructure on campus.
An Economic Driver for Sports Tourism
The Sonnentag will play a key role in the economic development of the Chippewa Valley, particularly through sports tourism. By attracting national athletic events and competitions, the facility is expected to draw visitors from across the country, increasing investment and activity in the region. Dave Minor, President and CEO of the Eau Claire Chamber of Commerce, remarked, “The Sonnentag represents far more than just a building. It’s a symbol of what we can achieve when vision meets opportunity, and when education, business, and community come together for a shared purpose.”
A Lasting Legacy
As The Sonnentag begins its journey as a transformative facility for UW-Eau Claire and the Chippewa Valley, its legacy will continue to grow. Chancellor James Schmidt summarized the impact best when he said “The Sonnentags’ love for UW-Eau Claire and their desire to create wonderful opportunities for our students never wavered during this process. This facility will change the lives of thousands of Blugolds and future Blugolds who come here to enjoy, make connections, and maybe even meet future lifelong friends.”