Arena groundbreaking
Concordia celebrated the beginning of construction on the arena section of its new Health, Human Performance and Athletic Center with a groundbreaking ceremony July 23.
The historical earth-moving machines exhibition hosted by the university on the Fourth of July helped clear the ground for the ceremony and building project.
"It is so exciting to see the progress taking place! Our alumni and donors are stepping up to join our generous faculty and staff in making this dream come true," said Pete Kenow, Concordia's vice president for institutional advancement.
The arena facility will include five classrooms/labs, offices for professors and coaches, performance arena with seating for more than 2,500 spectators, Hall of Fame display, weight room, training room, lounges, locker rooms, storage and concession areas. It is expected to be complete by fall 2009 when the operations of the athletic and human performance departments will move in. At that point, the planned renovation of the current facility into the wellness center can begin.
Also in the plan is a field house containing a 200-meter track and a multipurpose infield. Tennis, baseball, softball, golf and track teams will all have practice space in this section of the facility. Fundraising for this portion as well as the wellness center continues.
"This facility is the culmination of decades of planning," said Eunice Goldgrabe, chair of the health and human performance department. "For the HHP majors, there will be methods of teaching and learning we previously have not been able to provide. Additionally, the facility will be a gathering place for the entire campus community that promotes balanced, holistic growth of mind, body and spirit."
Kenow also commented on the possibilities for growth the new building will offer Concordia. Additional programs and majors will be possible and the state-of-the-art facilities will attract new students he said. "The HHPAC is also a natural bridge between Concordia, the Seward community, the Nebraska District of the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod and the church at large. It offers so much potential for partnership in a variety of areas."
Concordia President Brian L. Friedrich, the university's regents, the Concordia Foundation, faculty, staff, students and a variety of church and community members were on hand to participate in the groundbreaking.
See also: Arena groundbreaking speeches: Gratitude and opportunity .