Looking a little deeper in the Cowles renovation
February 5, 2014
Transformation of wrestling room
The newest renovation on campus has provided many opportunities for students, athletes and faculty. Known as the Simpson Athletic Complex, consisting of the
Steven Johnson Fitness Center, Cowles Center, Carse Hall and Hopper Gymnasium, Simpson’s facilities have helped athletic programs reach their fullest potential.
Practicing off campus since mid-summer, the Simpson wrestling team has finally moved back home and started practice in the newest wrestling room.
“The former room in the upper level of Cowles was nice, but our new space gives us all the training space we need,” Head Coach Nate Hansen said.
The wrestling room replaces the old pool with a two-mat room. The room also includes its own strength and conditioning equipment and the wrestlers are
able to meet with coaches easily.
“Office space right next to the rooms opens up training opportunity literally any time of day,” Hansen said. “We are very lucky.”
The team also has access to the weight room and cardio deck.
The new wrestling room isn’t the only thing that has been transformed in these past few months. The old wrestling room also got a makeover and now provides students with more classroom space, including a new exercise science lab.
Moving back to campus for the wrestling team means closer locker rooms and closer walks.
“In some ways the church will be missed,” Hansen said. “I’m biased because my house is right down the road, but having locker rooms and laundry right next door is a huge plus.”
Generosity and support for the wrestling program hasn’t gone unnoticed.
“Huge thanks from our program to the Hill and Johnson family for their generosity,” Hansen said. “We are so blessed to have the opportunity to train in these facilities.”
Luther Hill was a devoted supporter of the Simpson wrestling program, and often could be seen at dual meets. The Simpson board elected Hill an honorary life trustee in 2005. In honor of all supporters for the Simpson Athletic Complex, there will be a dedication ceremony held on Friday, Feb. 7.
The Storm begins a new week to battle it out with Iowa Conference rival, Central College today at 7 p.m.
in Pella.
Stay up to date with the team by tracking them on Twitter at @sstormwrestling and @StormChaswerWR, as well as the hashtag #OTRresults.
