ST. LOUIS, Mo. — The Washington University in St. Louis Athletic Department is set to take the Field House to the next level with a comprehensive upgrade that will elevate the look, feel and functionality of the facility for years to come.
 
The project scope includes a complete replacement of the existing lighting and controls with a modern sports lighting system, creating a brighter, more dynamic environment for practices, competitions, and events. The sound system will also be fully replaced to deliver stronger, clearer audio throughout the facility.
 
In addition, the Field House will be repainted to reflect current WashU Athletics branding, giving the space a fresh new look that matches the energy and pride of the program. New acoustical panels will also be installed, featuring graphics that celebrate and showcase the tradition of excellence that defines WashU Athletics.
 
"This project is about more than just updating a facility — it's about investing in an environment that matches the standard of excellence we expect at WashU," said Anthony J. Azama, Associate Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics. "We're excited to bring new energy into the Field House by creating a space that better supports our student-athletes, enhances the fan experience, and celebrates the proud history of WashU Athletics."
 
The Field House improvements reflect WashU Athletics' ongoing commitment to providing first-class facilities that support competitive excellence, school pride, and the student-athlete experience.
 
"The WashU Field House has incredible history and is one of the premier venues in Division III athletics," said Head Men's Basketball Coach Pat Juckem. "This renovation will elevate the environment for our athletes and supporters while enhancing the overall game day experience. Combined with our new high-performance floor, these upgrades solidify the Field House as one of the finest facilities in the country. We are grateful to University leadership for their continued investment in athletics and the overall student-athlete experience. Our players cannot wait to start our next journey and compete in the Field House!"
 
During the summer of 2023, the Field House received a new Robbins' MVP Court, which is a one-of-a-kind system that is tuned to minimize vibration and maximize uniformity and takes athletes' performance, comfort and safety to unrivaled levels. With this court, athletes are able to use less energy and perform at peak levels for longer periods of time. Additionally, athletes are less likely to be injured due to fatigue. MVP court provides a patented sub-floor design that conforms to concrete and prevents dead spots. It also optimizes ball-bounce and promotes consistent player comfort. There is also no rigid contact or connections between the concrete slab and the active layers of the system which dampens vibration, which in turn is show to reduce fatigue and lower injury.
 
"We are so excited about the new Field House project," added Volleyball Head Coach Vanessa Walby. "Pairing an elite level sound and lighting system with our new court is going to be a total game-changer. We have such an amazing story to tell here, and I can't wait for the new acoustics and fresh look to highlight our success the second you step into the gym. It's an incredible time to be at WashU and we feel so lucky to be a part of it!"
 
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Elevating scholar-champions requires resources beyond the institutional budget. Through the W Club, generous alumni, parents, and friends provide unrestricted support that is essential to the extraordinary WashU student-athlete experience—and the ongoing growth and development of the department. Annual support for Athletics allows the Bears to consistently rise to national levels of competition and ensures that our student-athletes enjoy exceptional opportunities as they train, compete, and lead. To make a gift to the Annual Fund for Athletics, please visit our secure online giving form or contact the Athletics Advancement Office at athletics@wustl.edu.