Athletic Center Has Highly Anticipated Grand Opening

By Maegan Green

The new athletic facility recently opened its doors to the Hood community.  A dedication ceremony was held on Friday, Nov. 4 at BB&T Arena, which will serve as the new home of Blazer basketball and volleyball.

“I am very excited for Hood students,” said President Ronald Volpe.  “It’s about time they had a home of their own.”

The new home of the Blazers cost nearly $10 million to construct.  The equipment in the fitness center will only be available to Hood students and faculty.  Until further notice, BB&T Arena will only be available to student athletes.

The new facility will also serve as a multi-purpose facility.

“We will have concerts, commencements, opening convocation, and guest speakers,” said Volpe.  “It will also serve as a safe haven for students in emergency situations.”

BB&T Arena can seat up to 2,200 people.  The athletic center also houses the two-level Hodson Fitness Center, the Shimano Training Room, offices for the coaching staff, changing rooms, and much more.

The opening day celebration consisted of performances by the Blazer cheerleaders, speeches from various members of the Hood community, and a time capsule presentation.

“I am excited about the new facility,” said Gib Romaine, director of athletics.  “It will add a lot of pride to the campus.”

Prior to the opening of the new athletic center, basketball games were played off-campus at Fort Detrick.  Volleyball games were played in Gambrill Gymnasium, but the insufficient seating did not provide a lot of opportunities for students to show support at the home games.

“The opening of the new gym means a lot to me as a cheerleader,” said sophomore Jessica Rumke. “I am thankful that Fort Detrick allowed us to use their gym, but there is nothing like cheering for our team in a home of our own.”

Plans to build a new gym had been in the making since the 1970s.  A planning committee whose members included several members of the Hood community came together and helped make the long-anticipated vision into a reality.

“The athletic center opened on schedule and under budget,” said Volpe.  “Hundreds of Hood alumni, foundations, friends, parents, faculty, the Board of Trustees and the Board of Associates made all of this possible.”