By Steven Natiello
Staff Writer
Marywood’s new pool might be completed sooner than you think. According to Dr. Mary Jo Gunning, the head of Marywood’s Athletics and Recreation Department, the initial plans for the new aquatics center have been completed and the tentative completion date for construction is November of 2010.
Plans for the new pool itself have yet to be finalized but current features include 8 lanes, a 1 meter diving board, and a 3 meter diving board. With the pool there will be two team rooms for swim teams, clubs, and other groups, as well as spectator seating for events.
The new aquatics center will also usher in new programs and opportunities for students. Varsity swim teams for both men and women, along with diving programs are among the new opportunities for students that will be made possible by the new aquatics center.
“[The new aquatics center] will be a wonderful enhancement to the Mellow Center and Marywood,” Dr. Gunning said. The building will be an addition to the Mellow Center and will be physically connected to the existing building. Access will be granted to students and community members.
Dr. Gunning also said that the department is currently looking for a new full-time program director to run the new programs and to be the coach of the new swim teams. She hopes to have a candidate by January 2010.