Venice High School has finally opened the doors to its new Wellness Center, an 8,000-square-foot complex designed specifically for weight training. The project, which cost approximately $900,000, satisfies a need for a full-time weight room on campus. Previously weights were in a facility next to the west end of Powell Davis Stadium. The weight room features 30 stations dedicated to core lifting and several more for specific training. "The old facilities had almost nothing for leg workouts," said athletic director Larry Sandburg, "We've added six stations just for leg curls and thrust."

 

In addition, the Wellness Center has almost twice the capacity of the former facility.

The center's opening comes at a time of great success for Venice athletics. Last fall, the varsity football team went undefeated in the regular season while the girls' volleyball team captured their 13th district championship in 15 years. Boys' basketball has won more than 20 games each season over the past two years and the baseball team was crowned 5A state champions in 2007.

The athletic department hopes the Wellness Center will contribute to continued success.

"We're expecting that every sport will get in there and take advantage of what we have," Sandburg said.

Wrestling might be the sport that benefits the most. The previous weight room will be converted into a building devoted entirely to wrestling. Over the past 12 years, the wrestling program was forced to practice in portables across campus and the outdated South Gymnasium.

The Wellness Center will also be used for fitness and physical education classes during the school day.

The school will hold a dedication ceremony 9 a.m. Thursday.

 

 

By ANTHONY HACKETT VHS Senior

Published: Wednesday, February 18, 2009 at 1:00 a.m.
Last Modified: Wednesday, February 18, 2009 at 6:48 a.m.