 |
As the summer construction season makes progress on the new natatorium and fieldhouse, the fundraising progress continues as well, thanks to recent contributions to the Athletics Phase II project.
Generous donors have given through Grinnell to generations of student athletes with
- A $330,000 bequest for a climbing wall in the new fieldhouse
- A $50,000 gift for a swim meet management room in the new natatorium
- A $35,000 gift for coaching offices
As the walls go up, multiple recognition opportunities also present themselves. Outreach is currently underway to alumni and friends of long-time coaches and professors emeriti of physical education John Pfitsch and Ray Obermiller. Gifts to Athletics Phase II may be made in their honor by contacting Meg Jones Bair, director of Donor Relations, 641-269-3200, jonesme@grinnell.edu, or online.
51%
Progress to $25 mill goal
Swimming and Diving teams in the New Natatorium
(under construction)
See the plans for the Athletic Facility
Athletics and fitness have always been an integral part of the Grinnell liberal arts tradition. Today, nearly one-third of our students actively participate in some aspect of the intercollegiate athletic program, and several of our varsity teams consistently stand out in Division III competition.
The new facilities will enable our student-athletes to train and compete at the highest level of their abilities, while showcasing Grinnell's superb campus as we host future Midwest Conference and NCAA meets and championships.
Importantly, the center will benefit the larger College community, providing a modern place where all students, faculty, and administrators can pursue their fitness and recreational interests. It will also enhance our special relationship with the town community in which we live. Grinnell High School swimmers will be able to train in our swimming pool, and members of the community will enjoy broad access to our athletic and fitness facilities. The geothermal energy plans and other environmentally friendly features of the planned buildings are another vital expression of Grinnell's deep commitment to preserve and protect our planet.
Tennis and Track & Field teams in the new Fieldhouse (under construction)
The footprint of the entire complex resembles a reversed 'L.' The new fieldhouse, with offices for the physical education staff, flows into the existing fitness center. The fitness center abuts Darby Gym, which connects to the new natatorium through an underground link containing several locker rooms.
 An inspired design by the firms of Pelli, Clark, Pelli Architects and Sasaki Associates will seamlessly integrate Phase II of Grinnell's Athletic and Fitness Center with the existing facilities. It will provide our student-athletes with a remarkable, holistic resource to pursue personal goals and competitive challenges. Whether they're seeking Grinnell's next consecutive conference title in swimming and diving in the natatorium, pushing their limits on the track in the new fieldhouse, or finding a release from the strains of academic life on the new climbing wall, superior facilities will encourage their determination and inspire their spirit.
An expansive fieldhouse will be built north of the existing performance gym, a natatorium with a new multipurpose swimming pool to the west. The completed complex will run along the east and south sides of Rosenbloom Field, resembling reversed 'L.'
- Total square footage: 200,000 square feet
- Estimated cost: $72.5 million
- Estimated date of completion: May 2010
- Estimated dedication: Fall 2010
|
|
