Convent & Stuart Hall recently announced plans for a new state-of-the-art athletics facility set to break ground in the coming year. The facility is to be built at the corner of Geary Boulevard and Masonic Avenue and will offer a wide range of sports amenities, including a gymnasium, swimming pool, weight room, and a rooftop turf field. As news of the project spread, students and faculty reflected on the impact the new space will have on their athletic programs and school life.
“It’s so exciting to think about all the new opportunities this facility will bring,” freshman Freya Sweeney said. “Not only will we have more space to practice and compete, but it’ll also help build a stronger sense of community among students who participate in athletics.”
The new facility will replace the existing sports facilities, which have been in use for decades and have become increasingly inadequate for the growing needs of the school. The current athletic spaces are limited in size, and students often struggle to find enough room for practice or competition. The new building is designed to enhance the overall student experience, with modern amenities that will help students thrive both academically and physically.
“I’m happy that our students will have access to resources that help them grow as individuals, both on and off the field,” said English teacher Susan Wilson. “The new athletics facility will give them the tools they need to succeed in all areas of their lives, from fitness to mental well-being.”
While the new facility has been met with excitement by students and staff, it has also sparked discussions about the future of the surrounding neighborhood. The construction of the new building will require the demolition of the existing Family Billiards pool hall, a longtime fixture in the community. Some local residents have expressed concern over the displacement of this business, while others are hopeful that the new facility will improve the overall area by providing a much needed resource for local students.
“I’m so excited for Convent to expand into this neighborhood,” senior Georgia Doyle said. “I’m ready to see how the new facility can serve students and the broader community in the years to come.”
The new athletics facility is expected to be completed by 2026, and students are eagerly anticipating its opening. In the meantime, the school’s athletic programs will continue to operate in their current spaces, with plans to adapt as the construction process moves forward.“This is such an exciting time for Convent and Stuart Hall,” said freshman Freya Sweeney. “It’s going to be amazing to have a new space that reflects our commitment to both academic and athletic excellence.”