PHYSICAL ACTIVITY COMPLEX OFFICIALLY OPENED

Released on November 28, 2003

In a ceremony this afternoon, Premier Lorne Calvert and University of Saskatchewan President Peter MacKinnon officially opened the Physical Activity Complex (PAC) on campus.

"The Government of Saskatchewan made a promise to strengthen our province's learning sector," Premier Calvert said. "The Physical Activity Complex demonstrates our government's commitment to fulfill that promise while building on the College of Kinesiology's reputation of excellence as well as the In-Motion program championed by the college."

The $33 million building was funded primarily by the Government of Saskatchewan and serves as a visible sign of renewal and expansion of campus infrastructure. The building includes a fully equipped 13,500 square foot Campus Fit Centre, the most comprehensive facility of its kind in Saskatchewan and a vast improvement over past facilities.

Together with the running track, triple-gymnasium, and climbing wall, the centre demonstrates the University of Saskatchewan's commitment to meeting the health and fitness needs of the entire campus community. The complex will be home to the College of Kinesiology, Community Service Programs and Huskie Athletics.

"In addition to providing much-needed research and teaching facilities for the College, this facility and its outstanding features will play an important role in enhancing the on-campus experience of our students," Peter MacKinnon said.

"Like all universities today, we face considerable competition for students and faculty. In this environment, the ability to offer ample opportunities for recreation and physical fitness as part of the university experience becomes increasingly important."

"The lecture theatre, modern classroom space, and state-of-the-art labs will provide Kinesiology students with the most current technologies and learning experiences in our field," Acting Dean of Kinesiology Bob Faulkner said. "And because we know that healthy and active students do better in all areas of their study, the PAC will also benefit all U of S students."

After only one month of operation, more than 17,000 people have already used the fitness centre. Peak days see more than 800 users access the facility and in October, there were more than 47,000 visits to the activity area.

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For More Information, Contact:

Jacquie McLean Learning Regina Phone: (306)787-5609	Peter MacKinnon, President University of Saskatchewan Saskatoon Phone: (306)966-6612
Laurel Rossnagel University of Saskatchewan Saskatoon Phone: (306)966-1105