Elissa Ann McCool
Staff Writer
One hundred students, faculty, and alumni gathered at the JSU Recreation Complex for the grand re-opening of the Walter Payton Center on Monday, Jan. 12, 2015.
As you walk into the Walter Payton Center, the changes made during the remodeling are evident. The walls are newly painted with motivational words across them and the carpet is freshly redone. The basketball courts are reprinted and there is a new Studio A that focuses solely on spinning. To the left of the rotunda, the Center has a new Pro Shop, where you can purchase snacks and drinks. The Recreation Complex also features a new Hall of Fame and Welcome Center.
Most of the students who attended the grand re-opening were very pleased with the remodeling of the complex.
“I really am excited for the new gym. It’s good to see Jackson State making positive changes on campus,” said Chuks Aguisiegbe Jr., a senior biology major from Jackson, Miss.
While some students are excited about the new changes, others have yet to see a difference.
“To me, everything looks the same. All I noticed was the paint job and they just separated the treadmills and weights,” said Alise Wilson, a sophomore social work major from Atlanta, Ga.
However, there are some new things that students need to be aware of. The WPC has a new waiver that all patrons must sign upon entering the facility.
Other changes include: Starting Feb. 1, 2015, in order to utilize the towel service you will need a pay a small monthly fee and check them out with equipment issue at our new Welcome Desk.
Also, in order to rent a locker, students will need to pay a monthly fee of $10 and purchase a lock from the ProShop. Students not interested in renting a monthly locker can purchase a lock at the ProShop or bring their own and use one of the specified ‘Daily Use Lockers’ for free.
The Walter Payton staff promises better things to come in the near future.
“The new machines should arrive in twelve weeks. We’re also looking into getting a coffee shop in here,” said Mark Dixon, the Assistant Director of Programs. The Recreation Complex will also be offering new classes, such as pilates, zumba, and swimming.
Students are encouraged to take advantage of the new services and classes at the center. Gym services are free for all current students with a valid I.D. The complex is also offering extended hours for the convenience of its members. Members can work out anytime from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, and 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday.
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