When I heard about the Health and Wellness Center project near the end of the 2022-2023 school year, I was very curious to see what it would become. I had not heard of something like this before and given the amount of planning and money that was behind this project, and like many students, I wanted to see the end results.
I was very curious about this new facility when I first heard about it, as the school has spent around $10 million on the building. I was also a bit skeptical as to how I, as someone who is not very involved with the athletics in the school, would use the building and wondered if the facility would benefit the entire school or only athletes.
Other Upper School students were skeptical. “I was a little surprised because we have other aspects of the school that could be used,” senior and Belfry Officer Maddie Quinter said. “For example, fixing the leak in the Arts Center or fixing the roof.”
However, when seeing the center in person, I was amazed at the many aspects of the building. For example, the weight room, dance studio, and yoga studio were elements that represented the versatility of the center.
“I’ve been here since seventh grade, so I understand the sports facility needed an update,” said senior Grace Taylor. “I did initially think [the Health and Wellness Center] was mainly for sports because that’s how it was presented, but after seeing the final design in person, I can see how it can have different purposes.”
Many athletes are also excited to use new equipment and have a larger space to train. “It’s a beautiful facility, and I am very excited for the space that both boys and girls can use.” senior Gertie Lafferty, a captain of the water polo and rowing team, said, Also, the trainer’s office has increased, which is great as during the water polo and rowing season there are a lot of injuries.”
Having the trainers’ and nurses’ offices near the weight room is something many students are happy about. Last year, Nurse Lori’s office was in a difficult-to-find location, for not only Upper Schoolers but also Middle and Lower School students. Now, finding the nurses’ and trainers’ offices will be a lot easier for the entirety of GA.
Dr. Mackean, Head of Upper School, also expressed that the new facility is not only meant for Upper Schoolers; rather, it is a space for all members of the GA community to appreciate.
“I think the new center is gorgeous and I love how there is something for everyone from Pre-K to 12th,” Dr. MacKean said. “We wanted to create a space where everyone felt comfortable and included. That’s why it’s called a Health and Wellness Center, not just an athletic center.”
GA also has upcoming plans to maximize the space and generate new ideas for the use of the center. “This is definitely more than just a weight room,” Dr. MacKean said. “We want different parts of the community to be utilizing this center. I am thrilled that we will have Emma Hearn piloting a dance class for students and that there will even be a smoothie bar for students to enjoy.”
After seeing the facility, it is evident that the Health and Wellness Center is a facility that is meant to bring our community together.