GRAND
FORKS, N.D. – University of North Dakota Director of Athletics Brian
Faison announced today that preliminary work has begun on the demolition of the
old Ralph Engelstad Arena east of Memorial Stadium. Once the demolition has
been completed, construction will begin on Phase I of the UND Athletics High
Performance Center, a new indoor practice and competition facility for UND
Athletics.
Demolition
of the old Engelstad Arena, which is being undertaken in multiple phases for
salvage purposes, is expected to be completed later this summer. Faison said
the goal is to begin construction on the UND Athletics High Performance Center
in Fall 2013. Phase I of the new facility will include a full-sized football
practice field, an 8-lane / 300-meter track, throws and jumps areas, and
seating for approximately 1,500 spectators.
“We’re
excited for this facility, which we’ve called a game-changer for UND Athletics.
It’s been talked about and dreamed about for a long, long time, and we’re
thrilled to finally see it coming to fruition,” said Faison. “This past spring
was a perfect example of why a facility like this is so critical. Our spring
sports, particularly football, baseball, softball and track and field, were
forced to endure multiple weather-related issues that a facility like this will
prevent in the future.”
The
UND Athletics High Performance Center will be utilized by all UND Athletics
teams. It will also serve the Greater Grand Forks community by offering a host
site for youth and collegiate events.
“The
facility will be a tremendous asset for the entire community,” said Faison. “We
will be able to host track and field events at all levels, and we will seek to
host Division II and III and NAIA championships, as well as possibly get into
the rotation to host Big Sky Conference championships.”
When
fully completed, the UND Athletics High Performance Complex will also feature
state-of-the-art strength and conditioning and sports medicine facilities. It
will also house UND’s Athletics Academic Support Services operations, as well
as coaches offices and locker rooms.
“This
project is the result of a complete team effort that was headed by [UND
President] Dr. Robert Kelly, [UND Alumni Association & Foundation
Vice-President and CEO] Tim O’Keefe, the Alumni Association & Foundation,
and our coaching staff,” said Faison.
For
more information on the UND Athletics High Performance Complex, please visit
www.undsports.com/athleticscomplex.
