The new Athletic and Fitness Center was completed in the summer of 2005 and the volleyball team used the "new" Darby Gym for its 2005 season. The Athletic and Fitness Center houses a state of the art fitness center, locker rooms, support areas, and an auxillary gym as well as the performance gym.

The new facility is one of the most outstanding volleyball venues in the United States. It has a seating capacity of approximately 1,300, press area, filming stations, statistics area, outstanding general lighting and TV lighting, Schelde net systems, one court for match competition and two courts for tournament play with ample space around each court, a generous storage area and a superior sound system. There are approximately thirty-four feet of overhead clearance, with all lights, HVAC duct work and speakers nestled above the arching rafters.

"We received nothing but favorable comments from officials and the teams we played this season in the new Darby Gym", commented coach Sonnichsen. "This facility sets the stage for regaining our strong volleyball tradition. The players love to compete here, the officials enjoy the experience of working here, and there is not a bad seat in the house for fans. Along with this great facility our strong campus and fan support will make Grinnell College the 'place' for volleyball in the Midwest", concluded Sonnichsen