Rec Center celebrates new entrance with grand opening

The Recreation Center celebrated the grand opening of the new entrance last Thursday. The two hour celebration included many activities, games and information about upcoming Campus Rec events.

 The event not only introduced the new entrance to students, but served as a way to welcome students back from winter break.

 Upon arrival, visitors were welcomed with an array of games and prizes, in an effort to create a fun atmosphere around the Rec Center. The staff members informed them about the event and explained what was going on throughout the day. The grand opening celebration allowed students to take part in free rock climbing and inMotion classes, including yoga and Zumba.

 Campus Rec staff member Gabe Hirsh said, "This event is a great way to get the student body back into the Rec, see the new entrance and learn about the many programs that the Rec has to offer."

 The Campus Recreation Center promotes holistic development of the university community through programs and services that support the overall well-being of each individual. According to the Rec Center's website, activities and services are run for the students by the students and help to ensure opportunities for the campus community.

 According to Intramural Sports Coordinator Kristy Lee, the goal of the Recreation Center is to bring students together in a positive social manner.

"The activities planned help to influence physical activity and healthy lifestyles on our campus," she said.

 The Rec Center, serving hundreds of students daily, provides a space for students to exercise and challenge themselves. The programs in place work to create fun activities that students will enjoy participating in. Each of these programs set up an informational table, distributing flyers and announcing upcoming events for the semester.

 The Ropes Course serves Sonoma State students by honing leadership skills and developing team building. The course was built in 2009 and serves students on a daily basis. Each semester, the first 25 Sonoma State affiliated groups interested in the low ropes course are allowed to attend for free. The workshops develop teamwork, trust, communication, and problem solving through various tasks and hands on activities.

 The Rec Center also offers personal training to anyone interested. Certified trainers work with students to develop a routine throughout the semester. Free consultations are available through the Rec center upon request. The trainers also offer buddy sessions, which allow multiple students to work with a trainer at one time. Fitness packages are available, with assessments starting at $10 and three one-on-one sessions with a trainer for $75.

"This is a very affordable and convenient option for students of all ages and body types," said senior Katie Spangler, a personal trainer at the Rec Center.

 "This is a great way to keep up on your New Year's resolutions, stay fit and remain motivated," she added.

 Outdoor Pursuits is comprised of students who share a love for the outdoors. Their goal is to plan trips for students to attend throughout the semester. This spring, the group will plan 10 to 15 trips for students to attend. The group plans the entire trip, including gear as well as food, providing students with a way to escape from campus for a weekend. From day hikes to overnight camping trips, this groups works to provide adventures for all to enjoy.

 Intramural Sports provided their upcoming events at the grand opening with hopes to get students excited for the upcoming semester.

 IMS Supervisor Kate McFarland commented, "This event was a great way for students to hear about our new intramural sports.

"Intramurals are a great way to meet people and stay involved at SSU," she added.

 Senior Mark Ollila, who attended the event, said he felt the very lively atmosphere that the grand opening celebration aimed to create.

"Students seemed enthused to be back in the gym working out and getting in shape," said Ollila. 

The new entrance will be used for the duration of the construction of the Student Center.

The construction site is located right next to the Rec Center, prohibiting students from entering in the main entrance. The new entrance is located on the west side of the building, facing University Library.

The Student Center was approved by the Sudent Referendum in Spring 2011. It is designed to be a central location on campus, and will consist of meeting spaces, dining venues, a ballroom, among other things.