** During the month of July, EIUPanthers.com looks back at 14 events, moments and players that helped shape the 2025-26 academic year. **

Gardella Family Court at McAfee serves as the new home for Eastern Illinois volleyball.  The building was officially dedicated as the Gardella Family Court at McAfee Gym prior to the Panthers OVC home contest against Lindenwood on Sept. 27, 2025.

The former home for EIU men's basketball (until the late 1960s) and home for several EIU women's athletic teams (until the late 1980s) was updated to serve as the new home for Panther volleyball.  A volleyball specific design and surface were installed along with window covers, new scoreboard and new sound system.  The facility opened for play for the 2025 season with EIU's first outside competition an exhibition match with Illinois State (Aug. 23).

During the Panthers inaugural season in the facility, EIU posted a 12-0 record at home including winning both the Ohio Valley Conference regular season and tournament titles. 

The volleyball only competition facility provides EIU volleyball with a dedicated practice space along with meeting and locker room space for the Panthers.

The historic building was opened in 1938 with the first athletic contest a men's basketball win over Southern Illinois on Dec. 7, 1938. 


Year In Review
No. 14 - EIU Gives Back In The Community
No. 13 - Will Klein Pitches In World Series
No. 12 - EIU Spring Fling Event Returns To Campus
No. 11 - EIU Plays Memorable Opponents 
No. 10 - EIU's OVC Coaches of the Year
No. 9 - EIU's OVC Players of the Year