As construction workers tow away the ruins of the past, plans for a new development provide hope for the athletic department?s future.

After watching students lift rusty weights in what many consider a crowded space, Chris Schultz, athletic director, saw student-athletes? need for a larger training facility. Motivated to improve current conditions, Schultz approached Debbie Siebert, superintendent, with a proposal in March.

“From the day the gym opened its doors, we have been in need of a weight room,” Schultz said. “We have made due and done our best with what we have, but we have always known that we needed more.”

Siebert understood the importance of Schultz?s request, but questioned his plan to install a portable metal building due to dimensions and appearance. In spite of this issue, the superintendent found Schultz?s desire as a priority for the athletic program.

“I just had to keep praying about it,” Siebert said. “I remember waking up in the middle of night and having visions of the possibilities. The Lord was certainly involved in this decision.”

In an effort to better the existing weight room, Siebert scheduled a meeting with Schultz, Bonner Cunnings, head football coach and local contractor, Greg Quiring. Their collaboration resulted in a new 1600 square foot training facility to the North end of the gym.

Quiring and Taylor/Teter architectural and engineering business, campus administrators and the contractor anticipate construction to break ground June 1. However, final blueprints for the expansion must be completed and submitted to city hall by May in order to ensure a timely approval.

Since Quiring’s daughters, Suzanna, ’10, and Rachel, ’13, attend this campus, his business with the school holds an even greater significance.

“I’m glad I am able to help the school move forward,” Quiring said. “It’s important to show our support and help during this transitional period in leadership. My goal for the building is to maintain the architectural integrity of the gym.”

While the committee still needs to raise an estimated $175,000-200,000 to pay for building costs and around $20,000 for work-out equipment, Siebert intends to acquire the money without loans and finish the project debt free.

While Siebert acknowledges construction difficulties could delay the completion date, the addition is expected to be ready for the fall semester.

Although these often prove unavoidable, Schultz believes the results will outweigh the frustrations of construction obstacles.

“I can’t wait for the completion of the room,” Schultz said. “It’s going to be a top-notch facility for our athletes to train in. We trust that our commitment to quality will speak loudly to our student-athletes and they will respond with renewed energy and effort.”

Like Schultz, Siebert views the new structure as a symbol of promise for the 2008-09 sports season.

“Research shows stronger athletes are more competitive and therefore more successful,” Siebert said. “This building can only improve the program. Now we will be able to provide our athletes with the experience they need to perform to their maximum potential.”

When the 40 x 40 space passes inspection, all student-athletes will participate in a strength and conditioning class.

“I think this will help us build muscle and morale,” John Dinsdale, ’09, said. “Instead of working out in a fenced area we will be inside the gym. I can’t wait to use the new equipment, too. I’m glad I’ll get to have this as a senior and others will get to use it in the years to come.”

Aside from the construction project, the administration plans to paint a mural of the Eagles sports logo. The school symbol will decorate the Northern face of the gym to display the spirt of student-athletes by June 30.