On Thursday, October 30, at 10:30 a.m., Aquinas College will officially dedicate and open the new Alksnis Athletics & Recreation Building. The event will include a ceremonial passing of the baton around the indoor track between past, present and future runners. The new building will also receive a blessing by Bishop David J. Walkowiak.

What: Alksnis Athletics & Recreation Building Grand Opening
When: Thursday, October 30, 10:30 a.m.
Where: 1580 Fulton Street – Convenient parking right in front of the Sturrus Sports & Fitness Center
Speakers: Aquinas President Juan Olivarez, Athletic Director Terry Bocian, and VP for Enrollment and Strategic Planning Paula Meehan; lead donor Greg Alksnis and Bishop David J. Walkowiak

Named after the project’s lead donor, Greg Alksnis ’71, and his family, the Alksnis Athletics & Recreation Building houses a 200-meter NCAA-certified track, and a turf infield that will also feature portable courts for use by intramural and junior varsity teams. In addition, the space accommodates indoor practice for baseball, softball, soccer and lacrosse.

Alksnis, co-owner of Magic Steel Corporation and an Aquinas Trustee Emeritus, was a scholarship athlete at Aquinas. He was a star on the Aquinas golf team and continued to distinguish himself on the links as an amateur throughout his life. An Aquinas College 2006 Athletic Hall of Fame inductee, Greg is one of only three golfers to win the “Grand Slam” of the four local major titles.

Alksnis’ wife, Sally, is an athlete in her own right. She has competed in numerous sports, been a runner and body builder, taught archery and shooting, and currently participates in the equestrian sport of dressage.

The Alksnis Athletics & Recreation Building completes Aquinas’ state-of-the-art $14 million athletic complex. The complex also includes the Sturrus Sports & Fitness Center which opened in November, 2010.