Miami Ohio University Athletics
Miami University RedHawks
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May 24, 2001
OXFORD, Ohio (May 24, 2001) - With its dedication less than four months away and its 10,000-square-foot physical fitness center already operational, Miami's Walter L. Gross Jr. Family Student Development Center is rapidly approaching a July 1 completion date when the facility will assume its role as hub of Miami's athletic facilities.
Scheduled to be dedicated prior to the Miami-Cincinnati football game on Sept. 22, the $5-million facility opened the doors to its physical fitness center on May 14 and is already drawing positive reviews from coaches and student-athletes alike. According to head strength and conditioning coach Dan Dalrymple, the center, which includes free and machine weights, a circuit training machine, cardiovascular equipment, and speed, agility, and jump training facilities, has taken Miami's strength and conditioning program to a new level.
"The new set up is an improvement in so many ways," Dalrymple said. "Along with all the new equipment, the whole environment is more suitable. We've got a lot more space to work with, there is more natural light and the ventilation system does a good job of removing the humidity and keeping it fresh. Having the fitness center separated on two floors as opposed to one big area also makes it a lot easier for the coaches to make their rounds and assist the student-athletes."
Work is currently focused on the west wing and lobby area of the center. Academic services, which is currently located in Millett Hall, is scheduled to make its move to the Student Development Center July 1 with the entire facility slated to be fully operational by the same date. The academic enrichment area of the center will include two large study areas, an informal study lounge, private tutoring offices and a computer lab, allowing academic coordinators to improve the quality of services to Miami's student-athletes.
"This is just an awesome facility," says Miami running back Cal Murray, Jr. "Just awesome."
The facility will be dedicated prior to Miami's home-opening football game versus Cincinnati on Sept. 22. A gala kickoff celebration, which will feature Miami alumnus and current NBA standout Wally Szczerbiak, will take place the evening of Sept. 21. Those interested in attending the gala celebration can contact Miami's Red and White Club at 513-529-3382.