Swimming Icebreaker

[Water Pony]

I was on campus this past week for the Distinguished Alumni Awards (DAA) and the campus looks terrific, especially Dallas Hall bathed in lights. More importantly, one of our past swimmers and recent Board Trustee, Frank Dunlevy, was honored. Congratulations to him and all the DAAs, including fraternity brother, John Harper.

While in attendance, I met with the Men's (Eddie Sinnott) and Women's (Steve Collins) Head Coaches. Despite the lack of a indoor facility, the team's are practicing outdoors for the time being. Even the coaches report being cold (while bundled up) during daily practices.

Apparently during the Christmas break, a temporary cover (much like the large tent on the main quad during Homecoming) will be installed over the A.R. "Red" Barr Outdoor Pool. Combined with new bulkheads, the two teams will then have a training facility for this winter, while competitive meets will be held off campus.

During the Award Ceremony, Dr. Turner reported our intention to build a new natatorium across the Central Expressway, but it remains unfunded at this time. With half of the funds pledged we still have no final commitment to build or dates to break ground.

In the meantime, send warm thoughts to the Men's and Women's Teams, who could use our collective support.

[DanFreibergerForHeisman]

Thanks for the update!

[smusic 00]

Is there a realistic chance of a single donor coming in to plug the funding gap or are they/you looking to a bunch of smaller donations to get it done?

[ponyswim]

They would like to get to 80% with as few donors as possible, so it would be great if someone would come up with a $5-$10 million gift.