With 2022 here, Simpson College will soon begin construction on the planned improvements to several athletic facilities, designed to enhance safety, strengthen competitive experiences and maximize usage flexibility.

Athletic Director Marty Bell tells KNIA News Cowles Fieldhouse is receiving a new HVAC system, allowing for a 12-month, climate-controlled environment essential to long-term facility sustainability and safety, while Simpson’s Hopper Gymnasium will now be the permanent home of the Luther Hill Wrestling Center. Relocating the wrestling center offers the abundance of space necessary to effectively manage the Simpson women’s and men’s varsity wrestling programs.

Outdoor upgrades will also take place after the spring seasons, with Buxton Stadium receiving new sports turf with improved safety features for concussion prevention, and the entire Buxton Stadium track will be resurfaced. Sport turf will also be installed on the infields of both the baseball and softball facilities to enhance the experience for student-athletes and to greatly reduce weather impacts.

Projects are expected to begin in May 2022 and be completed by July 2022.