The University of Windsor has received top honours for its new athletic complex.
The Toldo Lancer Centre, an addition to the school's existing Dennis Fairall Fieldhouse, has won a 2023 Outstanding Facility Award from the National Intramural and Recreation Sport Association (NIRSA). The Toldo Centre is the only facility in Canada to receive the award this year.
"The overall impact of this project alone provides it as a strong contender for the award," noted the NIRSA in a media release. "In addition to the overall design of a facility, it should greatly impact the student experience. The Toldo Lancer Centre exceeds expectations within both categories."
The centre was completed last July for $73-million. It consists of the Fairall Fieldhouse and 119,000 additional square feet of space. Included are a new triple gymnasium with a running track, a fitness centre on two floors, a fully-accessible 25-metre swimming pool with new men's, women's, and family changing rooms; and multiple rooms to accommodate martial arts, spin classes, and other activities. The building also has a new atrium.
U of W President Dr. Robert Gordon pointed out that the Toldo Centre is unique in another way.
"The Toldo Lancer Centre would not be a reality if it weren’t for the generous $55-million contribution by our students," said Gordon. "This is the largest-ever contribution by students to any Canadian university, so the accolades this building is receiving is as much a testament to their dedication as it is to ours as an institution."
The centre was honoured this year with six American universities that expanded athletic facilities in the past year.
