Fifty years ago, the development of Idaho State University’s famous multipurpose facility, originally branded the Minidome and forever to be known as Holt Arena, stemmed from Milton “Dubby” Holt’s solution to get more fans to football game — playing at night. Because fall was made for hunting and businesses were open during the day, night was the best time to get fans to the games, and with a covered football field, fans could count on staying dry and warm.
At the time, gathering student support for any project was difficult. However, students backed the dome concept, even though it meant a $14 fee increase. There were many challenges throughout the construction of the Minidome, from a small budget to an iron worker strike to a flood. Despite these challenges, the ASISU Minidome made its grand debut on Sept. 26, 1970, and 50 years later it still proudly remains one of the most unique parts of campus.