BGSU Recreation and Wellness Through the Years

Homer B. Williams [1865-1943] became the first president of the Bowling Green Normal School in 1912. Williams served as president until his retirement in 1937.

In the Bowling Green Normal School Bulletin for February 1915, the following was said about the College's location:

"Bowling Green, the seat of the Normal College, is a city of six thousand inhabitants, situated near the center of the Northwestern Ohio Normal School district, in a beautiful and healthful location, easily accessible from all parts of the district. It is a substantial business city in the center of a prosperous agricultural community and combines all the characteristics of a model school town. The citizens are deeply interested in the welfare of the College and the educational and moral tone of the community is wholesome and helpful in the highest degree."

In the year 1914-15 the College was held in the Armory building previously located on East Wooster St. As a result, there were no athletics. However, by the following year the College had a basketball team that won more than half its games. Opportunities for students to participate in sports, and in July 1920 the importance of athletics to teachers was described as follows:

"When one stops to consider how a group of teachers and would-be teachers, who have but a few days previously closed a year of strenuous activities in school, almost to an individual start to inquire into the opportunities for learning play in its various forms, it is then one asks, what is play?"

"These teachers, many of them with years of experience have found that the playground is the child’s world, that it is there he really starts to portray his character and determines his social efficiency which is the aim of the modern educator."

"It is on the playground that a carefully instructed teacher must guide him in accordance with rules of fair play, happiness, and will power which combined with a body well developed physically go to make the capable man or woman demanded by modern society."

"It is the teacher of little or no experience who neglects athletics. They are few judging by the size and number of classes for play, etc., and every student is there to receive some benefit to carry back to his or her school."

"Athletics as a college asset are not to be ignored, but are to be upheld to the fullest extent as they assist in creating a real school spirit."

"The entire student body should support loyally any activities which go to heighten the spirit of our school."

References

Athletics––past, present, and future. (1920, June). Gee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 2). p. 22. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/2

Athletics––their value. (1920, July). Bee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3). p. 5. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1915-03-08. (1915). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes, Bowling Green State University. (Paper 58), pp. 3-4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/58

History & Traditions. [Web page]. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.bgsu.edu/about/history-and-traditions.html

President Homer B. Williams. [Web page photograph]. (n.d.) Retrieved from https://www.bgsu.edu/president/past-presidents/homer-b-williams.html

The Bee Gee 1918. (1918). [Yearbook image]. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 1). p. 11. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/1

UA 002A - Homer B. Williams [1865-1943], President (1912-1937). (n.d.). [Webpage]. Retrieved from https://lib.bgsu.edu/finding_aids/items/show/2529

In an interview conducted Fall 1985-86, Edward “Eddy” Fries recounted the early years of tennis at Bowling Green Normal School. Fries was elected freshman class president in 1925, a member of the Varsity Club, and played on the football, basketball, and tennis teams.

Fries explained that prior to the founding of the Bowling Green Normal School, the local tennis club played on tennis courts located near the fairgrounds. However, after the land was purchased, houses were constructed on the property.

With nowhere to play, Fries’ father, E. M. Fries, who lived at 129 S. Prospect St., agreed to allow club members to construct tennis courts in his backyard sometime between 1908 and 1913. Eddy Fries described the construction of the makeshift courts: “We put the backstops in. Telephone posts and just chicken wire for backstops. And at the time, if you want the exact date, they were building the post office. When they dug the basement, they ran into a heavy clay and they cut out, probably with a spade, just like bricks. They brought them over and laid them because our backyard was just sand. They laid them on top of the sand.” These courts were referred to at the time as the Fries Courts.

According to Board of Trustees meeting minutes, the BG Normal School had appropriated $288.00 in 1915 for the surfacing, leveling, grading, and topping of tennis courts, indicating that courts were installed on campus for student use. While it is unclear exactly where those courts were located, it is noted that the courts were very popular among the student body. For example, in the May 1920 issue of the Bee Gee News an anonymous author wrote “the tennis courts are by far the most popular spot in the school campus these beautiful spring days. From early morning (even before breakfast, so they say) until late at night, the balls are kept flying back and forth over the nets. And there are audiences, too! If you are interested, in what ‘he said’ or what ‘she said,’ just stop and pay them a call.” An article published in the June 1920 issue of the Bee Gee News echoes the account of the previous month’s issue stating, “Never has B. G. N. C. seen so much interest shown in tennis as it has this year. One has to get on the courts very early in the morning or immediately after dinner at night, if he expects to get a chance to play at all.”

As early as May 1920, the students recognized a need for additional tennis courts, likely due to the popularity of the sport. In fact, additional tennis courts were listed as one of “the greatest needs of the institution in a material way,” in addition to an athletic field and playground.

The earliest reference to a men’s intercollegiate tennis team is during the 1919-1920 academic year, when it was mentioned in the June 1920 issue of the Bee Gee News that “we haven’t been very successful in tennis this year, but the men are working hard and trying to do their best.” The first tennis team on record consisted of Marc Walker and Richard Langstaff.

By 1924, the Varsity Tennis Team had been playing for a few years. However, it was noted that the facilities for tennis were poor, and the team was forced to practice on any available private courts in the city. Their lack of victories was attributed to the poor facilities.

References

Announcements. (1920, May). Bee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 1). p. 8. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/1

Athletics––an asset. (1920, May). Bee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 1). p. 9. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/1

Athletics––past, present, and future. (1920, June). Gee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 2). p. 22. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/2

Basketball Squad. (1925). [Yearbook article] Jones, C. C. (ed.) Key 1915-1925 Anniversary Edition. BGSU Center for Archival Collections. Bowling Green State University. p. 157.

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1915-10-01. (1915). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes, Bowling Green State University. (Paper 70). p. 7. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/70

Football. (1925). [Yearbook article] Jones, C. C. (ed.) Key 1915-1925 Anniversary Edition. BGSU Center for Archival Collections. Bowling Green State University. p. 142.

Freshman class history. (1925). [Yearbook article] Jones, C. C. (ed.) Key 1915-1925 Anniversary Edition. BGSU Center for Archival Collections. Bowling Green State University. p. 54.

Fries, E. (1985-86). Eddy Friess’ Interview. BGSU Oral History Collection. Bowling Green, OH: BGSU Center for Archival Collections. MS 449. Box 1. Folder 20.

Tennis Squad. (1925). [Yearbook article] Jones, C. C. (ed.) Key 1915-1925 Anniversary Edition. BGSU Center for Archival Collections. Bowling Green State University. p. 175.

Tennis team. (1924). The Key. [Yearbook article]. p. 140 http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/2

The BeeGee (1918). [Yearbook photograph]. p. 90 http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/1

The Key. (1924). [Yearbook illustration]. p. 22 http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/2

Bowling Green State University has valued the health and physical fitness of its students since its founding in 1910. To foster the growth of athletics and physical education on campus, the first gymnasium was constructed in 1915 inside the Administration Building (University Hall) underneath the auditorium (Eva Marie Saint Theatre).

Over the years, the former Administration Building, now called University Hall, has served a variety of purposes. In addition to housing the University’s first gymnasium (later referred to as the Recreation Hall), the building has also contained an auditorium, library, classrooms, and special quarters for home economics, industrial arts, and music.

Planning for the construction of the Administration Building began in 1911 when the General Assembly of Ohio appropriated $150,000 for its construction as well as construction of a women’s dormitory (Williams Hall). Proposals for the provisions of material and labor were submitted to the Board of Trustees by October 11, 1912, and the general contract was awarded to The Steinle Construction Company of Fremont, Ohio for a sum of $134,427. A $2,160 contract was also awarded to The Huffman-Conklin Company for plumbing, gas fitting, and sewerage, and a $2,525 contract was awarded to The Bryce Heating and Ventilating Company. All contracts were signed on January 20, 1913 by the Board of Trustees members and the contractors. The trustees and building architects, Howard & Merriam, then staked off the ground in the location of the building.

On July 3, 1913, the Board of Trustees approved the plans, specifications, and estimates for completion of the Administration Building as submitted by Howard & Merriam architects, after which, construction was able to proceed. The original plans included 25 classrooms, science laboratories, a library, a small auditorium, a heating plant, and the President’s offices. However, in 1913, the decision was made to expand the size of the auditorium and include a gymnasium directly underneath. The number of classrooms was also increased, and the science laboratories and heating plant were eliminated. To fund the expansions, an additional $41,000 was appropriated.

By December of 1913, the building’s foundations were complete, the concrete floor of the basement story was poured, and the basement story walls were being constructed. In addition, the steel work for the auditorium floor was in place, and the balcony floors were in the process of being constructed.

A year and a half later, during the summer of 1915, the Administration Building was in use at minimum for Board of Trustees meetings. The final inspection of the new Administration Building was complete by November 20, 1915.

By that time, the gymnasium was also mostly complete, with the exception of the flooring. On August 28, 1915, it was decided to defer the laying of permanent flooring until a later period, and rough boards were laid down temporarily. However, it was noted in the December 17, 1915 Board of Trustees meeting minutes that 1915-16 appropriations including funding for painting outlines on the gymnasium floor at a cost of $4.00, indicating that the permanent flooring had been laid or was to be laid soon thereafter. Also, listed in the November 4, 1915 Board of Trustees meeting minutes was a 1914 appropriation for the purchase of a gymnasium apparatus at a cost of $1,175.

In 1934, after nearly two decades of use, the Board of Trustees made the decision to convert the gymnasium into recreation hall. By that time, the Men's Gymnasium (South Eppler) had already been in use for nearly seven years.

In 1960, the Recreation Hall was converted into a theatre. This new theatre was constructed in order to replace the Gate Theatre, which was demolished in 1961. The theatre was dedicated in 1961 as the Joe E. Brown Theatre to honor the Holgate, Ohio-born comedian, stage, and film star.

In March of 2016, the section of University Hall that housed the original auditorium (Eva Marie Saint Theatre) and the original gymnasium (Joe E. Brown Theatre) was demolished during renovations.

References

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1912-08-16. (1912). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes, Bowling Green State University. (Paper 16), p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/16

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1912-12-06. (1912). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes, Bowling Green State University. (Paper 20), p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/20

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1913-01-20. (1913). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes, Bowling Green State University. (Paper 22), p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/22

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1912-12-20. (1913). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes, Bowling Green State University. (Paper 37), p. 7. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/37

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1915-08-28. (1915). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes, Bowling Green State University. (Paper 68), p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/68

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1915-11-04. (1915). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes, Bowling Green State University. (Paper 71), p. 5. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/71

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1915-11-20. (1915). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes, Bowling Green State University. (Paper 72), p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/72

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1915-12-18. (1915). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes, Bowling Green State University. (Paper 74), pp. 3-4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/74

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1934-05-26. (1934). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes, Bowling Green State University. (Paper 306), p. 10. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/306

University Hall. (n.d.). [Web page]. https://digitalgallery.bgsu.edu/exhibits/show/campus-tour/item/9008

The purpose of the demonstration was to "acquaint the public with the character of the physical training carried on at the college to safeguard the health of students." A large number of people attended the demonstration which showed that "the public is intensely interested in this phase of the college work."

The program was divided into two parts, with demonstrations by participants from the training school (third – sixth grade boys and girls) in the first part, and demonstrations by college girls from the Bowling Green State Normal School in the second part. Demonstrations by the training school included "The Muffin Man," a song and rhythmic game, "Black Tom," an active game, "Ace of Diamonds," a rhythmic game, an athletic memetic drill, an Indian club relay race, a dance performed by Elizabeth Beyermann (third grade). Demonstrations by the college girls included an Indian Club drill, a Swedish gymnastic drill, a wand drill, maze tag, the Indian Club, a "Norwegian Mountain March" dance, a "Blecking" dance, and a minuet performed by the sophomore girls.

References

Physical training demonstration. (1918). [Yearbook article]. The Bee Gee 1918. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 1). p. 113. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/1

Section of sophomore class in the gymnasium. (1918). [Yearbook photograph]. The Bee Gee 1918. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 1). p. 112. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/1

Although there was an athletic field on campus, it was initially only used as a practice field due to its poor condition. Football games continued to be held at the Ridge Street School field until the campus athletic field was improved in 1923.

Reference

Clark, A. (1966, November 12). Memories keep University stadium “alive”. [Football Program]. University Stadium. BGSU Football Program. Bowling Green State University. 28-29. Bowling Green, OH: BGSU Center for Archival Collections. UA 27 – Sports Press Guides and Programs. Box 29. Folder 11.

Membership was composed of the Head of the Department of Physical Education who served as Chairman, and two faculty members appointed by the President of the College, one of which served as secretary-treasurer.

In order to be eligible to play in any scheduled contest, students were required to maintain a passing grade in twelve hours of work. Also, students were only permitted to play on a single team during any season.

Participation in athletics was awarded by the Committee upon recommendation of the coach with sweaters, college letters, and medals.

Reference

Athletic rules. (1920, October). Bee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 5). p. 5. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/5

Students had expressed a strong need for an improved athletic playing field as early as 1920. However, it was not until 1923 that the Board of Trustees approved a $2500 appropriation to improve the condition of the athletic field as well as to construct new tennis courts.

The new field was completed during 1923 and was dedicated during the November 10, 1923 Homecoming festivities as the College Field. The events included a parade beginning at 1:30 PM, the dedication ceremony, and a football game against Ashland, which Bowling Green won 10-0.

The new athletic field was touted by the Varsity Club as “one of the best drained and levelest fields in this part of the country.”

References

Announcements. (1920, May). Bee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 1). p. 8. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/1

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1924-03-29. (1924). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes, Bowling Green State University. (Paper 209). pp. 5, 7. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/209

Clark, A. (1966, November 12). Memories keep University stadium “alive”. [Football Program]. University Stadium. BGSU Football Program. Bowling Green State University. 28-29.

Home Coming Day. (1923, October). [Newspaper article]. Bee Gee News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 35). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/35

Retrospective and prospective. (1923, June 9). Bee Gee News Commencement Number. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 33). p. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/33

As a continuation of the athletic field improvement project, bleachers were constructed to provide seating for 1,000 spectators. Constructed in sections, the bleachers were eight tiers high and two hundred and ten feet long––almost the full length of the field.

The bleachers as well as a new score board were “highly commented” by many Homecoming attendees.

References

Home-coming comments. (1924, November 25). Bee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 46). p. 27. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/46

New bleachers for College Field. (1924, October 22). Bee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 45). p. 23. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/45

The track was constructed on cinders on a sandy subbase to ensure that the track would always stay dry. It had six lanes and featured a two-twenty straightaway in front of the grand stand.

According to an anonymous writer for the Bee Gee News, the new track would likely improve training and “strengthen our chances on track events over last year, while our chances for taking the field events will be equally as good or better.” In fact, the Bowling Green track team did win the first track and field meet of the year against Findlay with a score of 62 to 37.

References

New track for athletic field: Next Spring’s track team has good prospects. (1924, December 18). [Newspaper article]. Bee Gee News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 47). p. 10. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/47

Our track team. (1925, April 24). [Newspaper article]. Bee Gee News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 51). p. 9. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/51

B.G.’s first track meet. (1925, June). [Newspaper article]. Bee Gee News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 53). p. 23. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/53

In the 1920's women were not able to participate on varsity teams, however women were able to participate in sports during regular physical education classes and by joining intramural and class sport teams. To provide additional opportunities for women to participate in sports, the WAA was formed as a point system.

Esther March was appointed as temporary chairman, and Eleanor Stutz served as head of the committee tasked with drawing up the Constitution. The WAA Constitution was submitted before a women's mass meeting on May 6, 1926 and subsequently approved. Miss Carolyn Shaw and Miss Myra Stephan backed the newly formed organization. The following women were elected as the first officers:

- President: Merle Gray

- Vice-President: Dorothy Beckman

- Secretary: Mildred Heffelfinger

- Treasurer: Katherine Croy

Membership was open to all women interested in athletics, and members earned points to obtain coveted letters B. G. Points were awarded by maintaining an "A" Posture, observing the rules of healthy living, participating in tennis and hiking, and by winning distinction in any or all athletic activities.

Initially, the various sports offered were divided into four seasons: hockey, soccer, basketball, and a spring season that included indoor baseball, volleyball, track, and tennis. Archery was added to the spring sports in 1929. Hiking activities were held in all seasons. During each season, games were played between the dormitories and the two town sections.

References

Fiegel, F. (Editor). (1929). [Yearbook photograph]. The Key 1929. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4). p. 153. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/4

Physical education department for women. (1926). [Yearbook article]. Ladd, J. B. (ed.). The Key 1926. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3). p. 156. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/3

W.A.A. (May 1926). Bee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 62). p. 9. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/62

Women's athletic assn. (October 1926) Bee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 66). p. 10 http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/66

Women's athletic association. (1929). [Yearbook article]. Fiegel, F. (ed.). The Key 1929. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4). p. 153. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/4

According to the July 1926 issue of the Bee Gee News, approximately 830 students attended the College in 1925, and 225 of those students were men. This was a substantial increase from 8 or 9 years prior, and it was projected that the following year a thousand students would be attending. It was believed by the Varsity Club that construction of the new facility would introduce a new era in Bowling Green athletics.

The new facility was built on a section of campus behind the Science building (Moseley Hall) and adjacent to the athletic field. An appropriation of $175,000 was granted for the construction of the facility, and an additional $18,335 was granted for the purchase of other necessities for the gym. Preliminary plans for the facility were examined and discussed by the Board of Trustees on October 16, 1925. The plans were approved subject to a checking by Dr. Williams. Leo Herman Contracting Company of Bowling Green, OH submitted the lowest bid of nine general contractors, and was awarded the contract to construct the new gym according to instructions issued to the State Department of Highways and Engineering.

References

Bee gee’s new gym. (1926, July). Bee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 64). pp. 6-7. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/64

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1925-10-16. (1925). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes. Bowling Green State University. (Paper 231). p. 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/231

New gym. (1926, May). Bee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 62). p. 5. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/62

The new gym. (1925, July 21). Bee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 54). p. 5. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/54

Although the front of the new Men’s Gymnasium was still unfinished, the new facility as well as the new campus library were open for public inspection during the day, allowing hundreds of citizens, alumni, and students were able to view the new buildings.

The Dedication Exercises were held in the Men’s Gym Saturday morning at 10:45 AM, and the formal dedication of the two new buildings followed.

To begin the dedication ceremony, President H. B. Williams welcomed the alumni, students, and other guests, and voiced his appreciation of the co-operation which he and the trustees had in the development of the College. During his speech he contrasted the sandhill and scraggy beach tree that formerly occupied the land with the new appearance of the landscape, and he expressed that it was a privilege to be involved with the “building force.”

Rev. W. A. Vorhis then delivered the innovation and benediction, followed by two numbers sung by the College chorus under Professor R. A. Tunnecliffe.

The address of the dedication was given by W. O. Thompson, president emeritus of Ohio State University, bank director, insurance company director, and trustee of Wooster College. President Thompson discussed the value of the new library and gymnasium and linked the two together as factors that make for better citizens. He stated, “’A strong mind in a strong body,’ the old Greek desire, is desirable today. We have come here today to dedicate these buildings. We dedicate buildings, that is, we give them for a certain purpose…but a person consecrates himself. A building cannot be consecrated.”

President Thompson then spoke specifically of the gymnasium, and declared that “people are coming more and more to understand that their bodies are temples which much be kept clean and pure if the best of the intellect is to be realized.” He went on to explain that “the gymnasium is the place where all pupils may be developed and not simply a few as on the football field.” He also discussed the importance of the gymnasium to the College stating, “A generation ago, or even half that time, the erection of such a building would have caused people to look askance; but now the public has come to understand that it is one of the essentials of an institution devoted to welfare of the boys and girls.”

The final event of the Homecoming celebration, the Grand Reunion of the Bee Gee Family dance, was also held in the New Gym Saturday evening. According to the Bee Gee News, “A large crowd was present, many acquaintances were renewed and a good time had by all during the program of dances.”

References

Dedication of two new buildings by president Thompson. (1927, December 23). Bee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 79). pp. 7-8. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/79

Homecoming. (1927, December 23). Bee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 79). p. 3. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/79

Hundreds visited newly dedicated college buildings. (1927, December 23). Bee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 79). pp. 4-5. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/79

Reference

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1934-05-26. (1934). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes, Bowling Green State University. (Paper 306), p. 10. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/306

By 1935, the University recognized the need to replace the College Field bleachers with a permanent, concrete stadium. During a Board of Trustees meeting on July 6, 1935, President Williams was authorized to execute and file applications for federal funding through the Federal Emergency Administration of Public Works to help finance the construction of the stadium as well as an addition to the Auditorium, and combined recitation building and swimming pool.

The cost of the stadium was estimated at $40,000, and an application for $18,000 in federal assistance (45% of the total cost) was filed with the Federal Emergency Administration of Public Works on September 4, 1935. The University allocated $22,000 from the Dormitory Funds to cover the remaining cost of construction.

Two months later, on October 29, 1936, the Board of Trustees received a letter from the Federal Emergency Administration of Public Works informing them that their application had been accepted and that the Federal government would furnish the full $18,000 requested. The University formally accepted the offer on November 7, 1936.

John P. Schooley, State Architect and Engineer, was selected to prepare the plans and specifications and also supervise the construction of the new stadium. Plans were developed for a concrete stadium that would be built between the goal posts on the north side of the playing field where the wooden bleachers were currently standing. The stands were designed as 17 rows high and consisting of six tiers of 500 seats each for a seating capacity of 3,000. The plans also called for a modern pressbox, men’s and women’s rest rooms located under the stadium, as well as storage rooms for field equipment.

Bidding for the project opened January 4, 1937, and by the end of the month contracts were awarded to the lowest bidders. The general contract was awarded to Baker and Schindler Company, of Defiance, OH for $37,319, the plumbing and sewer contract was awarded to Wiggins and Gillespie of Bowling Green, OH for $3,777, and the electrical contract was awarded to the Wind Electric Company of Worthington, OH for $525.

Groundwork began at the end of January, and the new stadium was complete in time for the 1937 football season at a total cost of $44,410.58.

References

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1935-07-06. (1935). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes. Bowling Green State University. (Paper 310). p. 5. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/310

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1935-12-14. (1935). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes. Bowling Green State University. (Paper 311). p. 6. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/311

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1936-11-07. (1936). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes. Bowling Green State University. (Paper 314). p. 9. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/314

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1936-11-12. (1936). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes. Bowling Green State University. (Paper 315). pp. 2-3. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/315

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1936-12-04. (1936). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes. Bowling Green State University. (Paper 316). p. 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/316

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1937-01-11. (1937). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes. Bowling Green State University. (Paper 317). p. 3. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/317

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1937-01-27. (1937). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes. Bowling Green State University. (Paper 318). pp. 16-17. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/318

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1937-04-30. (1937). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes. Bowling Green State University. (Paper 319). p. 5. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/319

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1938-04-11. (1938). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes. Bowling Green State University. (Paper 326). p. 7. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/326

Stadium facts. (1937, January 13). Bee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 408). p. 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/408

University granted stadium: Modern stands will seat 3,000. (1936, November 4). Bee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 356). p. 5. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/356

Work on stadium, other projects, well under way: State and federal men assigned. (1937, February 17). Bee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 413). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/413

The Modern Dance Club also gave members the opportunity to understand and appreciate dance through both individual and group composition, to expressive themselves emotionally, and to create through doing work in composition. Miss Harman, who studied under Hanya Holm, Doris Humphrey, Martha Graham, Charles Weidman, and May Wegman, all leaders in the modern dance movements, directed the club after its founding. Membership was open to any student having one semester of modern dance, and during its first year, the club had nine members. Students belonging to the club were awarded points for W.A.A.

By 1940, the club was presenting yearly demonstrations on technique tools for composition and completed compositions. They also presented yearly performances during the Christmas Chapel Program and during the May Day Festival.

The Modern Dance Club also invited modern dance groups to campus for demonstrations. On November 30, 1937, Hanya Holm and a group of ten artists gave a demonstration on campus that was both educational and aesthetic. An accompanying lecture showed that dance depended on individual interpretation and the personality of the performer.

References

Highfield, H. (Editor). (1939). [Yearbook photograph]. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 13). p. 121. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/13

Modern dance. (1939). [Yearbook article]. Highfield, H. (ed.). BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 13). p. 121. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/13

Modern dance club. (1940). [Yearbook article]. Osborn, R. (ed.). BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 14). p. 152. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/14

The dedication program began at 1:45 PM with an opening by President Emeritus H. B. Williams during which he presented information about the construction, capacity, and cost of the PWA project. F. J. Prout, President of the Board of Trustees then presented the stadium to President Offenhauer who gave the dedication speech. He also described the Board of Trustees members, who were present, as the “small group that did so much.”

Short speeches were also made by John P. Schooley, State Architect, and Fred E. Swineford, PWA engineer. Ohio state representatives Senator Adams, State Representative Canfield, and former Senator Dunipace were also in attendance as well as the Bowling Green mayor and superintendent of schools. The ceremony concluded with the singing of the national anthem.

The Falcons then played Capital University, winning with a score of 12-0. The Bee Gee News noted that as a result, “the old dedication day jinx was knocked for a loop.”

A dedication Buffalo Dance and Rally was also held the night before on Friday, October 15. The dance took place in the Men’s Gym from 8 – 9:30 PM, followed by a rally at 9:30 PM. Dancing then resumed at 10 PM.

The Five Brothers fraternity volunteered to sponsor the events when they discovered that no festivities were planned for the dedication weekend. Dick Hagemeyer told the Bee Gee News, “Something had to be done, so we held an impromptu meeting and arranged for a Nickelodeon Music-Box, a program, and signs for the rally.”

References

Dedication celebration by Buffalo frolic: Social activity gap filled by fraternity. (1937, October 13). Bee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 441). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/441

Falcons upset Capital Saturday with score 12-0. (1937, October 20). Bee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 442). p. 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/442

New stadium dedicated. (1937, October 20). Bee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 442). p. 5. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/442

The University established a need for a campus swimming pool in the 1930’s, and on August 12, 1938 Mr. John P. Schooley presented plans for a natatorium to the Board of Trustees. The plans were accepted, and an estimate for construction was set at $143,500.

The University decided to build the Natatorium in the space between the Women’s Gymnasium and the Men’s Gymnasium, and plans were made to connect the three facilities by means of corridors similar to those connecting the Administration Building (University Hall) and the Science Building (Moseley Hall) and Training School (Hannah Hall) on either side. The exterior was designed to be “completely in harmony with the design of the rest of the campus.” The pool was 35 feet by 70 feet, which was large enough to hold swim meets between college teams, and the room itself was designed to provide adequate grandstand space for crowds.

By November 21, 1938 bids for construction of the facility were presented to the Board of Trustees, and two days later on November 23, the contract was awarded to the Hadlock-Krill Construction Co. of Cleveland, OH for the sum of $110,438. This was the second contract the Board had given to Hadlock Krill in 1938––the other was for the Women’s Gymnasium which was already under construction.

To supervise the new facility, Melvin Bud Cox, a 1938 graduate of Ohio State, was hired by the Physical Education Department. Cox also supervised all of the swimming courses and intercollegiate competitions. Cox was also the first swimming instructor and coach at the University as well as football assistant. Cox had extensive training in the swimming field, and prior to coming to BGSU, he was assistant coach under Francis A. Schmidt, Ohio State’s Big Ten Coach. In addition, Cox was A. A. U. middle-weight champ of Ohio in 1931, and played pro-football with the Cleveland Rams in 1936.

Construction was completed in Fall 1939 at a cost of $152,000. In order to cover operating expenses for the year, a special appropriation of $2,000 made by the state board of control was obtained through the efforts of President F. J. Prout and Senator Fred Adams.

References

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1938-08-12. (1938). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes. Bowling Green State University. (Paper 331). p. 3. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/331

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1938-11-03. (1938). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes. Bowling Green State University. (Paper 335). p. 3. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/335

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1938-11-21. (1938). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes. Bowling Green State University. (Paper 336). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/336

Natatorium opening is set for next Monday. (1939, September 20). Bee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 515). p. 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/515

New swimming pool to be constructed between two gyms. (1938, September 14). Bee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 481). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/481

Work on pool started today; project to cost $132,000. (1938, November 23). Bee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 491). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/491

In contrast to most University clubs at the time, scholastic requirements were waived and it was not necessary to have a major or minor to belong. All that was required to participate was skill, speed, a good eye, a sense of sportsmanship, and “a liking for fun found from competitive sport.”

Miss Wrey Warner and Mr. P. E. Weber were the club’s initial sponsors, and twenty students were involved: ten men and ten women. The first club officers were as follows:

• Robert Baron, president

• Ruth Barnes, vice president

• Naomi Powell, secretary

• Dick Wilke, coach

• Walter Tiska, manager

• Marie Baker, manager

Membership depended on the amount of available equipment, and was increased as equipment was purchased. Meetings were initially held weekly Friday evenings from 6:30 to 8:00 PM in the Men’s Gym table tennis room. The club organized matches with teams from Toledo Y.M.C.A., Libbey-Owens Glass Company, and Findlay Y.M. In 1940 the club played matches with Toledo University, Findlay College, Ohio Northern, and Sandusky.

To promote interest in the sport, the club invited Jimmy McClure, a world champion holding both American and European titles, to the University for an exhibition. The event was held in the Men’s Gym on February 14, and was attended by delegations from neighboring towns and communities. The club also sponsored a nickelodeon dance in the Reception Hall with Chinese checkers, bridge, and “undignified refreshments––coca-colas and ice cream bars.”

References

Highfield, H. (Editor). (1939). [Yearbook photograph]. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 13). p. 117. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/13

Osborn, R. (Editor). (1940). [Yearbook photograph]. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 14). p. 141. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/14

Table tennis club. (1939). [Yearbook article]. Highfield, H. (ed.). BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 13). p. 117. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/13

Table tennis club. (1940). [Yearbook article]. Osborn, R. (ed.). BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 14). p. 141. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/14

Table tennis club. (1940). [Yearbook article]. Cunningham, D. (ed.). BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 17). p. 101. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/17

According to the women’s physical education department, there was a need for a riding academy in Bowling Green for both the students and public use. Previously students with an interest in horseback riding had to travel to either Findlay or Toledo. President F. J. Prout first presented the proposition of using the barn on University farm as a stables for a riding academy to the Board of Trustees on May 19, 1939. The proposition received full approval of the Board providing that arrangements for the installation of the academy would be at no cost to the University.

Less than four months later, during the week of September 11, 1939, President Prout announced that a stable of riding horses belonging to H. G. Hedden of Sandusky had been moved to the University farm. Initially, five horses were kept at the stable in a barn on the property referred to as Karnes Farm. Additional horses were added based on demand.

References

BGSU University Libraries. (2015, August 4). 1943 campus map. [Digital gallery]. https://digitalgallery.bgsu.edu/exhibits/show/aerial-tour/item/14281

BGSU University Libraries. (2015, August 4). Karnes Farm looking west from Mercer Road. [Digital gallery]. https://digitalgallery.bgsu.edu/exhibits/show/aerial-tour/item/14290

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1939-05-19. (1939). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes. Bowling Green State University. (Paper 347). p. 7. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/347

Horse back riding inaugurated here. (1939, September 20). Bee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 515). p. 3. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/515

In addition to supervising the facility, Melvin Cox also supervised all of the swimming courses and intercollegiate competitions. He was also the first swimming instructor and coach at the University as well as football assistant.

Melvin Cox had extensive training in the swimming field, and prior to coming to BGSU, he was assistant coach under Francis A. Schmidt, Ohio State’s Big Ten Coach. In addition, he was A. A. U. middle-weight champ of Ohio in 1931, and played pro-football with the Cleveland Rams in 1936.

References

(1939, September 20). Bee Gee News. [Newspaper photograph]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 515). p. 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/515

M. Bud Cox assumes duties as coach and instructor of swimming. (1939, September 20). Bee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 515). p. 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/515

By 1940, the group was recognized as the Swan Club, and by 1942 the fourteen club members performed demonstrations of formation swimming during several intercollegiate swim meets. Exhibitions were also made for teachers of the Physical Education Clinic during their annual convention on campus, and also for members of the Bowling Green Women’s Club. In addition, the club performed for students participating in Scholarship Day on May 2, 1942, and presented a Latin America Fiesta themed water show on April 29, 1942.

Swan Club Coaches

• Jean Drake Hendrickson (1939-1941)

• Gertrude Eppler (1941-1945)

• Iris Andrews (1945-1976)

• Jean Bailey Campbell (1976-1978)

• Sandy Cox (1978-1979)

We were told…

…a story about Elizabeth “Liz” Roulet Edgington, former president of the Swan Club, as told by her daughters Susan Edgington Johnson and JoLynn Edgington Saunders (personal communication, June 25, 2019).

On the night they presented The Wizard of Oz in 1948, Liz’s fiancé, Mort Edgington, had invited everyone from Phi Delta Zeta to watch Liz’s debut as Dorothy. As the excitement grew and the music started to play, the Swan swimmers began their grand entrance coming down the stairs to the pool. As Dorothy was seen coming out, Mort watched with joy, but his expression quickly changed when Liz fell down the stairs. As the saying goes, the show must go on and it did. The story must be told and it is.

Liz was part of the Swan Club from 1945-48, and she was a Physical Education major at BGSU.

References

Mermaid coeds to give swim show. (1939, December 6). Bee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 525). p. 5. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/525

Parks, J. (2015). An overview of the evolution of Bowling Green State University athletics programs 1941-2015. BGSU Faculty Books. Bowling Green State University. (Book 2). p. 25. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bgsu_books/2

Swan club. (1942). [Yearbook article]. Ruth, F. (ed.). The Key 1942. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 16). p. 68. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/16

During the event, Ohio State’s championship swimming team performed two programs of swimming, diving, and team formations, one in the afternoon for the students, and one in the evening during the dedication ceremony. The Ohio State women’s formation team also gave a demonstration of many aquatic formations. The price of admission was 25 cents for students and 55 cents for adults.

The outstanding event of the dedication was the exhibition of the Ohio State championship diving team coached by “Mike” Peppe. National champions, Al Patnik and Carl Clark, were on the diving team and among those in the exhibition. Bud Cleveland, the “clown” of the Ohio State team, also performed his unique dives. Other team members included Quayle and Stonhope.

State officials invited to the dedication included Governor John W. Bricker; Dudley White, U.S. congressman; Fred L. Adams, state senator; Don Canfield, state representative; A. D. Baumhart, Jr., state senator.

P. W. A. officials invited included D. R. Kennicott, regional director; L. A. Boulay, former associate regional director; A. A. Drescher and Harold Heinbuch, PWA officials who supervised the building of the Natatorium.

The BGSU Board of Trustees were also invited to attend the dedication.

Reference

Nation's best will perform at pool dedication. (1939, December 20). Bee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 527). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/527

The Outing Club was sponsored by Miss Gertrude Eppler and Miss Carolyn Shaw with the purpose of getting people "interested in building up health through sports." Virginia Corson served as temporary chairman in 1941 and was appointed as acting president by 1943. Activities included hiking, biking, fishing, camping, woodcraft, making fires, outdoor cooking, and boating activities. By 1944, a moonlight hike and campfire in honor of the seniors had become an annual event.

References

Outing club. (1943). [Yearbook article]. Cunningham, D. (ed.). The Key 1943. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 17). p. 102. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/17

Outing club. (1944). [Yearbook article]. Pugh, H. (ed.). The Key 1944. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 18). p. 171. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/18

Pugh, H. (Editor). (1944). [Yearbook photograph]. The Key 1944. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 18). p. 171. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/18

Bee Gee News. (1941, October 1). [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 597). p. 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/597

Since the University did not have a golf course, the varsity golf team and physical education classes in golf practiced a mile and a half away at the Bowling Green municipal course in City Park. The plan for a University golf course originated with University President Frank J. Prout, Herman Geiser (business manager), Harold Anderson (Athletic Director), Warren Steller (coach), and Dale Sautter (custodian of the physical education buildings). During a University Board of Trustees meeting on January 10, 1944, the persistent demand by members of the Physical Education Department for a golf course was discussed. It was agreed that a golf course would be constructed on the east end of campus (current location of Harshman and Kreisher Quadrangles) where a need for landscaping was also identified.

University President Dr. Frank J. Prout officially announced the plans to construct a golf course on December 13, 1944. He explained that the project would be completed economically since only a small amount of work would be necessary to turn the existing plot of land into a golf course.

Construction of the new, nine-hole course took about 18 months and was completed by the University maintenance crew with the help of the Navy students stationed at the University who helped remove rocks from the area. It was built on land originally used for farming by the agricultural department up until 1935.

The completed course was not as large as the municipal course at City Park. However, it was 35 to 40 acres and a complete round covered about a mile. The course was also intended to be used as a general recreation area. Sautter explained, "we don't want it to be thought of only as a golf course...for there are tables and fireplaces there for any of the students to use." Dr. Clair Powell, associate professor of industrial arts, constructed the fireplaces, and several picnic tables were added. The existing pond located next to the new golf course was also stocked with fish with the advice and assistance of the State Department of Conservation.

References

BGSU University Libraries. (2015, August 4). 1946 campus map. [Digital gallery]. https://digitalgallery.bgsu.edu/exhibits/show/aerial-tour/item/14282

BGSU University Libraries. (2015, August 4). Looking west from the east side of Bowling Green. [Digital gallery]. https://digitalgallery.bgsu.edu/exhibits/show/aerial-tour/item/14319

BGSU builds golf course. (1944, December 13). [Newspaper article]. Bee Gee News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. Book 720. p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/720

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1944-02-01 (1944). Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes. Bowling Green State University. (Paper 402). p. 3. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/402

Finney, M. (1946, March 27). Completed golf course needs only grass on the greens. [Newspaper article]. Bee Gee News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 767). p. 5. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/767

Golf course to be reality. (1945, May 16). [Newspaper article]. Bee Gee News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 738). p. 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/738

Student enrollment at Bowling Green State University steadily increased after the Great Depression, peaking at 2,726 in 1940. However, once the United States entered into World War II, enrollment had declined to a record low of 858 students in 1943.

As enrollment numbers started rising again in 1944 and 1945, the University began planning for an anticipated enrollment surge as men would begin transitioning back into the classroom. As a result, student housing became an important issue that the University needed to quickly address.

During a Board of Trustees meeting on February 20, 1946 the President and Board members discussed the housing issue at length. It was determined that with the expectation of 2,500 students enrolling in the 1946 fall semester, housing and classroom accommodations must be available. In addition to plans for the construction of a new dormitory, prefabricated trailers, and steel huts, plans were also underway for the construction of dormitories under the football stadium.

The President first presented tentative plans for the stadium dorms, known as Stadium Club, during a Board of Trustees meeting on August 1, 1945. The plans were approved, but contracts were not awarded until December 1945. Advised by Frank L. Raschig, Department of Public Works, the University awarded the general contract to Knowlton Construction Company of Bellefontaine, OH for $23,815, and the heating contract to W. J. Gillespie of Bowling Green, OH for $8,171.

Construction of the Stadium Club dorms was complete by September 1946, providing additional housing for 88 men. However, there was still a housing shortage because the new dormitory was still under construction. As a result, the University was forced to find additional temporary housing wherever possible, including within the Men’s Gym. Approximately 100 men lived in rows of bunk beds located on the basketball floor of the Men’s Gym until completion of the dormitory in November.

However, not all students were so lucky to secure housing. According to Marie Foos, secretary to the Dean of Students, over 380 prospective students that had preregistered to attend BGSU during Fall 1946 were refunded their deposits and turned away with the explanation that housing was not available.

References

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1945-08-01. (1945). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes. Bowling Green State University. (Paper 413). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/413

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1945-12-07. (1945). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes. Bowling Green State University. (Paper 413). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/413

Main campus enrollment history. [PDF file]. Retrieved from http://www.bgsu.edu/library/cac/ua/quickfacts.html

Men’s housing may ease next semester; University applies for more units. (1946, January 16). Bee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 758). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/758

Rooms filled to capacity; over 380 coeds rejected. (1946, August 14). Bee Gee News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 784). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/784

The University first identified a need to expand the campus in 1942 for a proposed air field. As a result, the University attempted without success to purchase the 80-acre tract of land east of campus owned by Mr. Henry Warren Sterling and known as Sterling Farm.

Fourteen years later, in 1956, the University again tried to acquire the Sterling Farm property which they deemed “essential for the continued growth and development of the University.” At the time, campus enrollment had increased, and was projected to continue increasing during the next ten years. As a result, the University identified a “critical need for appropriate sites for the housing of students, for outdoor laboratory facilities in the Department of Health and Physical Education for men and for women, for educational buildings and service facilities for the expanding enrollment, and for outdoor space essential to the health and safety of students for a variety of campus activities.”

The University tried unsuccessfully for the next several years to acquire the property through negotiations with the Sterling heirs, condemnation proceedings, and a sheriff’s sale. In May of 1959 the State Director of Public Works and Sterling Farm property heirs reached an agreement to sell the 80-acre tract of land to the University at a price of $77,000.

When the property was purchased, a number of old buildings were deemed either inhabitable or unusable by the University. The property that was not sold and relocated was in need of disposal, and a one-day fire fighting school was organized on Sunday, July 12, 1959 to remove the structures in a controlled burning, educational setting. Twenty-eight fire companies in Wood County were invited to attend, and the one-day school included a series of demonstrations of the latest methods of fire fighting in residences and small buildings. In the months following the demolition, grass was planted in the southern 40 acres for outdoor recreational use.

Acquisition of the Sterling Farm property allowed the University to construct a new sewer trunk line that stretches from E. Wooster St. to the city disposal plant on Poe Rd. Two decades later, in 1979, the Student Recreation Center was constructed on the property. The Pace Trail was later constructed in 1988 and the Perry Field House was constructed in 1992.

Following the purchase of the Sterling Farm property in 1959, the University purchased an additional 480 acres (approx.) between 1960 and 1961. The landowners included:

• Russell Kramer (1960)

• Virgil and Anna Isaacs (1960)

• Thomas Edwin and Fanny Cross (1960)

• Robert Riegle (1960)

• Goldie Ketzenbarger (1960)

• Dale and Willie Haven (1960)

• John and Edna Bowman (1961)

• Merwyn and Helen Nelson (1961)

• Elmer Nelson (1961)

• Edwin John and Nellie Allison (1961)

During the next several decades the following recreation and athletic facilities were constructed in what is now referred to as the athletic district:

• Intramural Fields

• Whittaker Track

• Meserve Softball Field

• Warren E. Steller Field (1964)

• Doyt Perry Stadium (1966)

• Ice Arena (1967)

• Forrest Creason Golf Course (1972)

• Student Recreation Center (1979)

• Cochrane Soccer Field (1980)

• Fitness Trail (1982)

• Pace Trail (1988)

• Perry Field House (1993)

• Sebo Athletic Center (2007)

• Keefe Tennis Courts (2007)

• Stroh Center (2011)

References

Athletic facilities (n.d.). [Webpage]. https://digitalgallery.bgsu.edu/exhibits/show/campus-tour/athletic-facilities

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1942-01-03. (1942). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes, Bowling Green State University. (Paper 380), p. 1. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/380

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1956-06-15. (1956). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes, Bowling Green State University. (Paper 504), p. 6. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/504

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1957-10-05. (1957). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes, Bowling Green State University. (Paper 509), pp. 2-3. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/509

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1957-12-21. (1957). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes, Bowling Green State University. (Paper 510), pp. 3-4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/510

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1958-08-28. (1958). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes, Bowling Green State University. (Paper 512), p. 3. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/512

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1959-05-09. (1959). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes, Bowling Green State University. (Paper 514), p. 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/514

One-day fire fighting school to be held on Sterling farm. (1959, June 25). The B-G News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 1487). p. 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/1487

Sown to grass. (1959, August 28). The B-G News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 1490). p. 3. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/1490

Wood County Recorder’s Office

The planning process for a new football stadium was initiated in 1959 when the Board of Trustees allocated money in the local Auxiliary Facilities Construction and Equipment Fund for the planning, constructing, and equipping of the stadium. It was determined that no State-appropriated funds would be used for the project.

By 1962, the University had determined that the proposed stadium would be located on recently purchased land east of the present golf course (now Kreisher and Harshman Residence Halls) alongside other athletic facilities.

The Osborn Engineering Company was selected to design the new stadium, and the initial drawings were submitted on March 11, 1963. However, the revision process was suspended when the University indicated a desire to build a 22,500 seat stadium in the initial phase of construction rather than the 10,000 seat stadium that was originally planned.

Final plans for phase one of construction were completed by May 1965 and included seating for 22,500 people, a press box, team rooms, offices, meeting rooms, handball courts, and other facilities for health and physical education and intercollegiate competition. The estimated cost for the stadium was $2,800,000.

References

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1959-09-11. (1959). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes. Bowling Green State University. (Paper 515). p. 3. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/515

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1965-01-15. (1965). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes. Bowling Green State University. (Paper 545). p. 5. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/545

Future plans include stadium. (1962, August 9). [Newspaper article]. The Summer B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 1675). p. 3. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/1675

This new theatre was constructed in order to replace the Gate Theatre, which was demolished in 1961. Construction began in the spring of 1961.

The theatre was dedicated on October 30, 1961 as the Joe E. Brown Theatre to honor the Holgate, Ohio-born comedian, stage, and film star.

Reference

Joe E. Brown to visit here. (1961, October 20). The B-G News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 1623). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/1623

University Hall. (n.d.). [Web page]. https://digitalgallery.bgsu.edu/exhibits/show/campus-tour/item/9008

It was decided to relocate the existing nine-hole University golf course to it's current location north of Stadium Drive in 1962 when plans were made to build a new residential center in its place. Although only a nine-hole course was constructed, plans were made to later expand the course to 18 holes.

Golf pro James Richardson directed and managed the course facilities. The course included a clubhouse that housed a pro shop where golf clubs were available for rent and refreshments could be purchased. The trees planted on the course were of many different varieties to serve as an outdoor laboratory for the biology department and botany students.

References

New campus golf course opens. (1965, June 23). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 1860). p. 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/1860

Nine-hole challenge entering final stage. (1964, March 27). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 1781). p.4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/1781

University to build new golf course. (1962, December 4). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 1695). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/1695

Construction on a hill in the new athletic area (present-day Forrest Creason Golf Course), began in the early 1960’s when rubble from the construction of the Life Science Building, Jerome Library, and Kreischer Quadrangle was deposited to the location.

The University had originally planned on using the hill as part of an overpass for Stadium Drive, which was constructed in 1963. Planning for the overpass began as early January 1964, and would have connected University property located on the east and west sides of I-75. However, by February 1966 plans to build an overpass on the site were abandoned, and it appeared that for a time the hill’s future was uncertain.

However, by 1966, Samuel Cooper, chairman of the Department of Health and Physical Education (HPE) had expressed an interest in turning the gradually growing hill, which he referred to as “Mt, Jerome” or “Beatty’s Bump,” into a “teaching slope” for HPE’s instructional program in skiing. The skiing program was developed two years’ prior, had already acquired $4,000 in ski equipment, and was offering courses to students. In July 1966, Cooper emphasized that “were it shaped properly, the surface smoothed, and some lighting provided for evening work, we would make extensive use of it.”

Between July 1966 and March 1967, the University had approved plans to develop the site of the hill into a Lagoon-Ski Hill Area used for both recreational and instructional purposes. It was decided that the hill would be developed into an 800-foot long, 34-foot high ski slope with contoured south and west sides to also allow local children the opportunity to use the hill for sledding and tobogganing. A dish-shape design was planned to help the snow last as long as possible. In addition, a 15-foot deep, 10.7-acre lagoon featuring an island was planned adjacent to the ski slope for training in sailing and canoeing.

The site preparation was completed at no cost to the University due to an agreement between Miller Brothers, Inc. of Archbold, OH, and W. H. Blausey, Inc. of Woodville, OH in which the contractors would perform the work in exchange for the fill-dirt from the lower level lagoon, which was then used in the construction of I-75. Keith W. Trowbridge, resident analyst of institutional research, described the lagoon as “a happy marriage between function and utility with aesthetics being the child” because in addition to selling the fill-dirt, the University also used the topsoil to landscape the ski slope.

It was originally anticipated that the ski slope would be opened in time for 1967-68 winter instructional use. Although construction of the site was complete by October 1967, it was recommended that instructional use of the ski slope be postponed so as not to interfere with long range site planning. However, it was recommended by Karl E. Vogt that students be permitted to use the ski slope for recreational purposes should there be sufficient snow covering.

Over the years University students found creative ways to slide down the ski slope, also commonly referred to as “Bill’s Hill” throughout the following decades. Although there is evidence in a 1978 BG News article of one student sealing himself in a large plastic bag and sliding down the hill, a more common activity was “traying.” In 1987, Jeff Wallace, a junior accounting major, explained the proper technique of sliding down the hill on a cafeteria tray. His advice included wearing a long coat to prevent snow from entering clothing, using candle wax or furniture polish on the bottom of the tray to increase speed, sitting indian-style and being pushed down in order to spin, and of course, dressing warm and wearing earmuffs. Wallace also commented that a bump at the bottom of the hill will stop the tray but not the body and mentioned that he “mastered two back flips and landed on [his] feet.”

At one point students were permitted to sign out the brown bolta trays from their front desks to use for sledding, although they were often not turned back in. However, it was a violation to remove trays from the cafeteria, and “trayers” ran the risk of being ticketed by police for petty theft.

References

Cooper, S. M. (1966, February 8). [Memorandum to W. T. Jerome]. BGSU Center for Archival Collections (Design and Construction, Box 1, Folder 10), Bowling Green, OH.

Cooper, S. M. (1966, July 27). [Memorandum to Eugene Beatty]. BGSU Center for Archival Collections (Design and Construction, Box 1, Folder 10), Bowling Green, OH.

Vaughn, K. (1987, January 23). Innovative students convert food trays to sleighs. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4607). p. 13. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/4607

Jerome, W. T. (1966, February 9). [Memorandum to Samuel M. Cooper]. BGSU Center for Archival Collections (Design and Construction, Box 1, Folder 10), Bowling Green, OH.

Kreischer, E. J. (1964, January 6). [Letter to T. M. Major]. BGSU Center for Archival Collections (Design and Construction, Box 1, Folder 11), Bowling Green, OH.

Lovrinoff, D. (1967, March 8). Lagoon to be built soon: Rival for Peregrine? [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 2067). p. 6. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/2067

Recreation site to be ready for next semester classes. (1967, July 20). [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 2108). p. 5. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/2108

Summary of special meeting to discuss development of the Lagoon-Ski Hill Area. (1967, July 24). [Meeting summary]. BGSU Center for Archival Collections (Design and Construction, Box 1, Folder 10), Bowling Green, OH.

Vogt, K. E. (1967, November 2). [Memorandum to Doyt Perry, Earl Rupright, and Ronald Smith]. BGSU Center for Archival Collections (Design and Construction, Box 1, Folder 10), Bowling Green, OH.

Vogt, K. E. (1967, October 19). [Memorandum to Kenneth H. McFall and Paul Moyer]. BGSU Center for Archival Collections (Design and Construction, Box 1, Folder 10), Bowling Green, OH.

Warner, T. (1967, February 24). [Letter to Paul E. Moyer]. BGSU Center for Archival Collections (Design and Construction, Box 1, Folder 10), Bowling Green, OH.

The rugby team was formed as a sport club under the direction of Maury Sandy, director of intramural sports. In addition to helping in the club’s formation, Sandy also assisted in furnishing equipment for the team.

Captain Jerry Nicolosi led the team of approximately 20 players in its first and only match of the spring 1968 season on May 18, 1968 against the Cleveland Rugby Club at Cleveland. Nicolosi was an experienced leader, having played rugby while attending the Ohio State University. He was assisted by co-captain Tim Fox who played rugby while attending the Air Force Academy.

By the fall 1968 semester, the “Ruggers” had expanded to 32 members and opened their first full season of competition with an 11-8 victory over the Ohio State Rugby Club on Sunday, October 20 at 1 PM at Ohio State University. Although the Ohio State Rugby Club had over four seasons of play and a skill advantage, the “hard defensive play by the entire Falcon unit held Ohio State in its own half of the field for the last five minutes of the game to assure the Bowling Green victory.” Rick Schneider, Pete Eby, and Tim Fox all scored points during the game.

Interest in the sport continued to grow, and the need for double headers became a reality by the spring 1969 semester when the team had expanded to 45 players. Home games were initially played on the Sterling Farm Field.

According to an article in 1969 BGSU Key Yearbook, the team observed the custom of the sponsoring a celebration during home games and paying for drinks. These parties were held at the Cantebury Inn in Bowling Green, and in return, the Cantebury Inn sponsored the club by purchasing team jackets.

References

Rugby club. (1969). [Yearbook article]. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 87). p. 197. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/87

Rugby club tops OSU 11-8 on rally. (1968, October 23). The B-G News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 2250). p. 8. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/2250

Rugby match. (1968, May 17). The B-G News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 2217). p. 11. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/2217

Rugby team ready. (1968, October 17). The B-G News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 2247). p. 7. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/2247

Rugby to start at BG. (1967, November 14). The B-G News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 2143). p. 8. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/2143

Ruggers anchor the sport at BG. (1969, March 14). The B-G News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 2311). p. 7. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/2311

In 1967, David and Rita Lowery were hired to teach beginning and intermediate skating, with special instruction in figure skating. Also during this time, the University was the first in the country to have a synchronized skating team. When the club was founded, it was made up of students who were interested in skating, whether recreationally or competitively. Each year, the team would perform before the first and second period of hockey games, competitions, as well as in most Ice Horizon ice shows. In 1972, Sam Cooper hired Frank Sawyer and Susan Barber to teach the PEG classes. Susan taught the Falconettes and the PEG classes from 1972 until her retirement in 1997, although she did return to teach classes from 1998-2000. In 1977, the Falconettes consisted of 22 members and were financed by the Parent’s Club, Alumni Association, President’s Club, and the health and physical education department. In 1982, there were roughly 20 members on the team after tryouts in the fall.

The Falconettes added interest to the hockey games, alongside of Freddie and Frieda. In the fall of 1985, tryouts were held with 16 to 24 skaters making the team. Men were allowed to try out for the team, but the feminine name tended to deter them from doing so. The Skating Club was an associate member of the US Figure Skating Association and was honored in 1992 for 25 years of membership. Ice Horizons returned to the Ice Arena in 1993 and was considered the best amateur program in Northwest Ohio. This skating program showcases the talent of skaters of all ages, including Samuel Cooper and Scott Hamilton. In 1997, Sue hired Lona Leck to assist the team with choreography and to bring them into the US Figure Skating collegiate competitive structure. The same year, the team changed its name to the Precision Skating Team, that included 18 students. The team president was Meredith Eland and, at this time, the University joined the Midwest Collegiate Conference. In 2000, the team changed to its current name, the Synchronized Skating Team.

In 2001, the Synchronized Skating team competed in a national competition in Colorado Springs where they took fifth place. The team competed with 18 members led by President Lana Mastroianni, although a normal team consists of 20 members. Coach Lona Leck states that the interest in the sport is growing, especially synchronized skating. Also called the “Brown and Orange,” the club sport was having difficulties becoming a varsity sport, during this time. The team had to pay for all their expenses, including airfare, competition fees, and more. Becoming a varsity sport allows for all fees to be paid for by the athletic department. With other schools making their synchronized skating teams varsity, the “Brown and Orange” requested this status. The other schools were becoming varsity in order to become funded by the university, as well as gain new opportunities for the athletes and coaches.

The team competed from 1996-2005 in nationals. Due to the lost interest and lack of recruiting after the 2004-05 school year, the club had been absent for a few years, but had returned in 2009. During this time, the club was led by Danni Yurek with Amanda Losch as treasurer. The club had roughly 12 regulars during this school year, but they were seeing new members weekly. With the sale of the “Livestrong” bracelets for Lance Armstrong being such a huge hit in 2004, the team decided to start selling their own bracelets during Parents’ weekend to fundraise for their competition happening that year. Jane Bancroft created the idea of selling bracelets that said “Unfalconbelievable,” and ended up being a huge success. Lana Mastroianni became the coach for the team in 2005, with Sydney Sigler as president. The team practices different skills and choreography on the ice a few times a week with practices off ice as well. There were 15 skaters on the team and they took 7th at the U.S. Synchronized Team Skating championship the previous year, as well as being ranked 7th nationally.

As of 2011, the club was yet to be funded by the University, so the team had to pay out of pocket. A couple years ago the club was formed as Synchronized Skating team, but was then turned into the Figure Skating Club. During this time, the president was Amanda Jagow and Lindsay Willen as the vice president. Today, the club is a part of the United States Figure Skating Association’s intercollegiate skating program. They practice weekly with a range of skills and skating levels between a competitive team and recreational club. In the 2014-15 season, the team came in 8th overall at the Falcon Invitational.

Reference:

Susan Barber (personal communication with Lona Leck, January 29, 2017)

[About Us]. (2016). Retrieved from http://bgsufs.wixsite.com/bgsufigureskating/maintenance

[Competition Results]. (2016). Retrieved from http://bgsufs.wixsite.com/bgsufigureskating/competition-results

[Programs Designed to Retain Figure Skaters]. http://iceskatingresources.org/CollegeClub&VarsitySkating.html

Ice Arena Ready To Open. (1967, February 15). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 2055). P. 7. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/2055/

Ice show features various talent. (1993, April 23). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 5535) p. 3. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/5535/

Ice, ice skating. (2011, November 16). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 8465). P. 1-2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/8465/

Ice skating club returns to campus. (2009, November 20). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 8165). P. 3, 5. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/8165/

‘Synchronized’ effort pays off. (2005, September 22). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 7482). P. 1. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/7482/

Bracelets raise money for synchronized skaters. (2004, November 22). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 7360). P. 3. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/7360/

Determination, practice and sheer talent combine to make the BG Skating Falcons: The hottest thing on ice. (1985, February 1). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4348). P. 3. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/4348/

Falconettes on B’Rink of success. (1977, February 4). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3328). P. 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3328/

Skaters place fifth in Colorado. (2001, March 22). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 6782). P. 10-11. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/6782

Club Sports Summary. (1982). [Yearbook article]. Morino, S. (ed.). The Key 1982. BGSU Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 141). P. 175. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/141

Skating Club. (1993). [Yearbook article]. Davis, T. (ed.). The Key 1993. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 152). P. 97. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/152/

Precision Skating Team. (1999). [Yearbook article]. The Key 1999. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 158). P. 80. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/158/

Synchronized Skating Team. (2000). [Yearbook article]. The Key 2000. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 159). P. 158. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/159/

Synchronized Skating. (2002). [Yearbook article]. The Key 2002. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 161). P. 97. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/161/

Men’s Club Volleyball at Bowling Green State University is a part of the Midwest Intercollegiate Volleyball Association (MIVA) and holds its home matches at the Anderson Arena in Memorial Hall. The sport is played with two teams of six players separated by a net while trying to score points by grounding a ball on the opposing team's court.

The first meeting of the club brought in about 75 men, although only about 50 of them are still practicing during the week. Much to Doug Beal’s dislike, the club did not have enough balls for each man to practice with, not to mention the difficulty in finding a time and place for the team to practice. Most of the new members are beginners, although there was two experienced players that made co-captains, Mike Kamlenski and Ivan Madar. Unfortunately for the team, Coach Doug Beal had to miss the following season. They did however receive the title as the most successful starting club in the MIVA in late 1971.

The team had a successful season in 1982, with them placing seventh out of 13 teams at the MIVA tournament that was held that the Bowling Green Student Recreation Center. This was the first time BG held the competition and was led by Captain Dan Metelsky and Coach Caren Aiple. This was the fourth year BG played in the MIVA but their best season was in 1979 where they placed second. They finished the season with a 29-10 record. Captain Metelsky contributes the team's success to the University club sports program and its director Warren Scholler for the funds and support given to the team.

In the 1986 season, the men’s club beat the University of Toledo with Mike Payne, who was captain and named the star of the team. The team then competed in the finals of the MIVA, but unfortunately lost to Wisconsin. For the second time, Payne was selected to the MIVA all-star team as well as his performance earning him the Commissioner’s Award.

Due to the success at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul, where the U.S. Men’s Volleyball team was collecting gold, the sport was gaining more interest. The BGSU Men’s Club Volleyball in the 1989 season’s weak points for the team was the passing. They also had Captain Craig Davic coach until they bring in Coach Bill Boyle in late February.

The 1994 team was coached by Jessica Andrasko, who was also the co-captain of the Women’s Varsity Volleyball team. The president at the time, Brian Yale, had said that BG never competed at the national level. In order to raise money, the team put on a “Meet-the-Team” where people could pay to get a team picture and autograph. The team also works varsity games and sells items to raise money.

In 1999, the team held tryouts and open gym in Eppler South in order to get more members and make people aware that volleyball is not just a women’s sport. The previous year, the team placed second in the silver bracket in the MIVA. They also won first at the All-Ohio Tournament at Ohio Northern University for the past three years, as well as taking first in the Ohio Wesleyan tournament. The team felt they needed to rebuild themselves and so they took the previous year to do so.

A few years later, the club was paying its own way as well as having to share the gym with the cheerleaders. The coach in 2002 was former BG volleyball player Kris Perorda. Each year, the national tournament is head in a major U.S. city and is sponsored by the National Intramural Recreational Sports Association. According to NIRSA, BG is ranked at number 22 in their Division 2 rankings. In 2006, there was no men’s varsity volleyball team, as well as no coach for the club team after Coach Cheryl Fulton left after graduation. The team is very competitive and held its own tournament November of this season, led by co-captains Brian White and Bryan Burvis.

Currently in 2017, the team is open to undergraduate students and they hold open gyms and tryouts to select at most 25 players for the club. The club meets in Eppler South Gymnasium with President Nick Suboyu.

References

[Men’s Club Volleyball]. (n.d.) Retrieved from https://orgsync.com/10217/chapter

Men’s club spikers host tournament. (1982, April 16). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3984). P. 5. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3984

BG club volleyball ends successful 29-10 year. (1982, April 20). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3985). P. 5. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3985

Volleyball - ‘up up and away.’ (1971. January 13). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 2542). P. 8. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/2542

Spikers count on experience. (1971, November 17). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 2652). P. 8. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/2652

Falcons lose volleyball finale. (1986, April 17). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4518). P. 11. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/4518

Club volleyball triumphs. (1986, February 21). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4491). P. 7. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/4491/

Spikers face Midwest foes. (1989, April 12). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4932). P. 8. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/4932

Men’s club volleyball holding open tryouts. (1994, September 23). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 5734). P. 10. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/5734

Falcon Club Volleyball Meet-the-Team (7 p.m.). (1997, September 9). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 6200). P. 3. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/6200

1989-1990 B.G.S.U. Men’s Club Volleyball Schedule. (1990, January 12). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 5022). P. 5. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/5022

Men’s club team ready to go on the attack. (1999, September 2). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 6515). P. 6. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/6515

Club spikers just love to play. (2002, March 27). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 6939). P. 1, 9. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/6939

(2006, November 8). [Newspaper article]. Club volleyball slides under the radar. BG Falcon Media, Retrieved from http://www.bgfalconmedia.com/club-volleyball-slides-under-the-radar/article_d1b48619-4354-5aad-a98c-056c7a1a20c4.html

The original nine-hole golf course was constructed in the early 1960's with plans to later expand to an 18 hole course. Discussion of adding another nine holes to the course began in the spring of 1971 between Robert Dudley, golf course manager, and Athletic Director Dick Young. According to Dudley, expanding the course to 18 holes was the only way to increase revenue without drastically increasing the price per round. The idea was discussed with Vice President for Public Services James Hof and University President Hollis A. Moore. A committee was then formed that acquired counseling services from the U.S. Golf Association and U.S. Golf Foundation. H. G. Hassenplug, a golf architect from Pittsburgh, PA heard about the idea and volunteered to help. After a presentation to the Board of Trustees, consent was given during a board meeting on August 31, 1972 to move forward with the project and secure bids.

At the time the typical construction rate for a nine-hole golf course was between $200,000 and $400,000. However, because the University already owned the additional land, and had the electrical power and water required for the expansion, the project only cost $127,999. The golf course addition was operational by the summer of 1973.

A little known fact is that in order to construct the additional 18 holes, the University and the Ohio Highway Department agreed to trade land. When Interstate 75 was constructed, it cut through University owned property. Rather than constructing an underpass to connect to the University's land on the opposite side of I-75, the University and the Ohio Highway Department agreed to swap land. The University acquired land north of Poe Road and the Highway Department acquired the land on the other side of I-75. This allowed the University to keep the course expansion on the West side of I-75.

References

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1972-08-31. (1972). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes. Bowling Green State University. (Paper 587). p. 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/587

Golf Course Expanded. (1973). [Yearbook article]. Turnley, F. T. & John, J. A. (ed.). The Key 1973. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 91). p. 41. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/91

O'Breza, Jack. (1972, October 11). University hits on 'bargain' during golf course addition. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 2757). p. 2. Retrieved from http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/2757

Puskar, G. J. (Photographer). (1972, September 24). [Newspaper photograph]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 2748). p. 7. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/2748

During the board meeting, President Moore made the following statement:

"The experience of this university in attracting a large number of applicants for enrollment (at a time of quite general enrollment decline not only elsewhere in this state but throughout most of the nation) is a strong indication that higher education in a residential campus setting has wide appeal. As we look ahead to long-range planning for Bowling Green State University, it seems quite clear to me that we should continue to emphasize those qualities of the University which are characteristic of a residential campus--a range of student services, attractive residence hall programs, maintenance of a personalized approach to education, cultural activities and a comprehensive recreation program.

"During my three years here I have seen progress in all of these areas, but the greatest need still exists in terms of recreation facilities. There are few other aspects of a residential university which affect as many students and which overall can make more of a contribution to the personal enjoyment of the years on campus as can a full range of recreation facilities.

"It is for this reason and because of my optimism about the future enrollment of this university that I am taking steps today to activate a thorough-going--and I hope expeditious--study of the recreational needs on this campus. I want to receive recommendations for future construction, improvements and programming.

"Some obvious needs call for our attention: expanded swimming facilities, lighted intramural field and tennis courts, space for indoor winter recreation games (both team and individual), and possibly an indoor track. Let me emphasize that any such facility should stress participation and not spectatorship, intramural and not intercollegiate. To be sure, such a facility would assist our intercollegiate programs in swimming, gymnastics and others, but for the most part the purpose of new space for sports would be for the personal enjoyment and intramural competition within the campus.

"I shall within the next few days appoint a committee with staff assistance to move immediately toward a full study of this matter and a report back to me at the earliest possible moment."

The committee recommended the construction of an indoor recreation facility, but saw it as a long-range project due to limited funds.

References

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1973-05-03. (1973). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes. Bowling Green State University. (Paper 592). pp. 11-12. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/592

Bowling Green State University. Dedication Student Recreation Center Bowling Green State University February 10, 1979. [Event program]. Bowling Green, OH: BGSU Recreation and Wellness.

President Hollis A. Moore. [Web page photograph]. (n.d.) Retrieved from https://www.bgsu.edu/president/past-presidents/hollis-a-moore.html

The need for lighting on the driving range was brought before the University Board of Trustees on April 5, 1973 by Student Representative to the board, Mark W. Walker. Walker explained that there was a demand for nighttime use of the driving range, and the possibility of adding lights should be explored.

The Board of Trustees approved several projects to improve University recreational facilities in order to increase the usage of existing facilities and develop new recreational opportunities on August 16, 1973. As a result, lighting was installed at the driving range during the fall 1973 semester.

References

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1973-04-05. (1973). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes. Bowling Green State University. (Paper 591). p. 10. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/591

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1974-02-14. (1974). [Meeting Minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes. Bowling Green State University. (Paper 598). pp. 17-18. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/598

Buzas, A. (Photographer). (2009, July, 22). [Newspaper photograph]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 8101). p. 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/8101

Ladies Day was the first in a series of events held during the week as the grand opening celebration. Professional golfer, Miss Shirley Spork, hit the symbolic first ball to open the Ladies Day activities. During the event she conducted clinics, attended a luncheon, and participated in the tournament.

Other events during the week included a men's tournament and celebrity day on Wednesday, June 19, and "Duffers Day" on Friday, June 21.

Reference

Shirley Spork opens Ladies Day. (1974, June 18). The Daily Sentinel-Tribune, p. 12.

Prior to the committee formed by Wilcox, University President Hollis A. Moore appointed a group in May, 1973 to study campus recreation needs. The group recommended the construction of an indoor facility as a long range project due to limited funding.

In the fall of 1974, Wilcox, then student representative to the Board of Trustees formed a student committee, and the board members allocated money to fund trips to view other universities' facilities.

In order to gauge the interest in a campus recreational facility, Wilcox sent out a survey to 2,000 University students. The survey revealed that most students were interested in a recreational facility and also willing to pay for it. Students were told that the initial cost would be a "substantial amount of money" and additional fees would be charged when the facility opened. To gain additional support, slide presentations of recreational centers at other universities and the current BGSU facilities were shown in the residence halls and at organizational meetings. In May 1975, a petition with 7,800 student signatures supporting the concept of a recreation center to be funded by student fees was submitted to the Board of Trustees. The board then made the decision to support the construction of a recreation center funded by student fees.

Although Wilcox graduated in 1975, he maintained contact with University officials about the progress of the recreation center.

References

Bowling Green State University. Dedication Student Recreation Center Bowling Green State University February 10, 1979. [Event program]. Bowling Green, OH: BGSU Recreation and Wellness.

Dannemiller, M. (1979, February 9). Student rec center is 'a dream come true'. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3579). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3579

Homzak, J. (Editor). (1975). [Yearbook photograph]. The Key 1975. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 134). p. 267. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/134

Potosnak, T. (1979). [Yearbook article]. Schippers, S. (ed.). The Key 1979. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 138). pp. 214-219. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/138

On January 8, 1976, the Board of Trustees members along with Dr. Eakin toured four proposed sites for the Recreation Center as well as a proposed site for the Musical Arts Building. The architectural firm Thomas T. K. Zung of Cleveland, Ohio provided a review of the advantages and disadvantages of each of the sites and recommended that the two buildings –– the Student Recreation Center and the Musical Arts Building –-be located on the area of campus formerly known as Sterling Farm. The board reasoned that placing the two buildings next to each other would provide both with access to parking on the northeastern section of campus. It was also decided that both buildings would strive for harmony in their exterior design and landscaping.

Reference

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1976-01-08. (1976). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes. Bowling Green State University. (Paper 612). p. 3. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/612

During the March 11, 1976 Board of Trustees meeting Mr. Zung of Cleveland architecture firm, Thomas T. K. Zung, Inc. presented illustrative drawings, a three-dimensional model, and slides to show how a proposal termed Scheme E would most economically meet the needs for a recreational facility. Some concerns were raised by board member Mr. Bryan, and he requested that the site be reviewed to ensure that areas designed for sunbathing would actually be in sun during the spring and fall and that parking would be adequate and readily accessible to the entrances. He also asked that the relationship between the Student Recreation Center and the Musical Arts Building be more clearly described. President Moore asked that the architects clarify these questions during the next board meeting.

Despite the concerns raised by Mr. Bryan, the board voted to authorize President Moore to proceed with planning and construction of the Student Recreation Center with building construction costs not to exceed $7,650,000. The board also voted that the facility be amortized through income generated from an increase in the facility fee and the facility's operation to be financed in part by the general fee. It was expected that the student general and facility fee per quarter would need to be increased by approximately $25 in order to pay the cost of operation, principal, and interest charges. The fee increase would go into effect the first quarter that the facility would be operational.

It was also decided that the use of the facility would not be preempted by intercollegiate athletics. However, since the facility would replace the Natatorium, the larger pool would be allocated to the swim team approximately 39% of the time. However, the smaller, recreational pool would be available for student use at all times.

It was noted that graduate and undergraduate students were concerned that facility would be used more for intercollegiate athletics than for general student use. In addition, some students were against the construction because of the proposed increase in general fees. However, other students supported the construction despite the fee increase.

In the March 12, 1976 issue of the BG News, University President Hollis A. Moore stated "It's not just a facility but a whole new attraction for the campus." He added that such a recreational facility was appropriate for a residential university because "we're in an era of activity and physical fitness."

The final building plans were approved in October 1976.

References

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1976-03-11. (1976). [Meeting Minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes. Bowling Green State University. (Paper 614). pp. 2-3. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/614

Bowling Green State University. Dedication Student Recreation Center Bowling Green State University February 10, 1979. [Event program]. Bowling Green, OH: BGSU Recreation and Wellness.

Thomas, P. (1976, March 12). Board approves new rec center. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3218). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3218

In 24 degree temperatures, Mark E. Kerns, undergraduate student representative to the Board of Trustees was the first to use the ceremonial shovel to break the frozen ground where the Student Recreation Facility would be built. Kerns was followed by undergraduate student representatives Dennis O. Bottonari (1975-76) and Michael R. Wilcox (1974-75), Michael A. Coffman, graduate student representative to the Board, Dr. Annie Clement, coordinator for academic program development, Charles Shanklin, Board President, and University President Dr. Hollis A. Moore.

The final plans for the facility were approved in October 1976, two years after a Student Recreational Committee was formed. Construction for the new facility was scheduled to begin immediately and was scheduled for completion in September 1978.

President Moore remarked that the cold weather was an indication of the necessity for a recreational facility to draw people together and "be a hub of activity." Bottonari commented that the building "shows what can be done by the students and administrators when they work together and take the right steps," and Wilcox said that "it's what I feel should be one of the most significant parts in the history of Bowling Green."

References

Borchers, K. & Borchers, K. (Editors). (1978). [Yearbook photograph]. The Key 1978. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 137). p. 7. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/137

Break frozen ground for new rec center. (1977, January 7). [Newspaper article]. The BG News. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3312). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3312

Potosnak, T. (Editor). (1979). [Yearbook photograph]. The Key 1979. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 138). p. 311. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/138

Schippers, S. (Photographer). (1977, November 3). [Newspaper photograph]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3423). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3423

Smestad, G. (Photographer) (1977, October 14). [Newspaper photograph]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3412). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3412

Smestad, G. (Photographer). (1978, March 31). [Newspaper photograph]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3473). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3473

The BG News. (1978, November 21). [Newspaper photograph]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3553). p. 2.

http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3553

Ben McGuire was selected from a pool of 80 applicants by an eight-member, student-faculty screening committee and 15 independent students and faculty. McGuire graduated from Bowling Green State University in 1963 with a bachelor's degree in physical education. Prior to becoming Director of the Student Recreation Center, McGuire was the Associate Director of Campus Recreation at the University of Illinois.

Reference

Griesser, T. (1978, January 13). Rec center's McGuire looks ahead. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3442). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3442

Reference

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1977-09-30 (1977). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes, Bowling Green State University. (Paper 626). p. 3. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/626

According to Howard, "the logo is based on the simplified human figure since ultimately the success and functioning of the facility depends on the people who use it." Howard also explained that "the logo is intended to symbolize the whole recreational program and so the logo design is based on general characteristics of athletics, not any specific sport or interest."

Reference

Rec center logo. (1978, July 12). [Newspaper article]. The BG News Magazine. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3510). p. 8. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3510

The Student Recreation Center cost $9.35 million to complete and was the first stand-alone facility financed solely with student fees. The facility was supplied with equipment purchased from a $400,000 budget. In addition to the usual equipment (balls, racquets, towels, and locks), toboggans, kayaks, windsurfers, tandem bikes, and cross-country skis were also purchased.

The facility opened for student use at 6:30 AM on Thursday, January 2 and remained open until 1:00 AM. That day students stood in lines to tour the 185,000 square-foot facility that was said to be one of the finest of its kind in the state.

Although the majority of the building was open for use, some sections remained under construction for an additional three to four weeks. The opening of the handball-racquetball and squash courts was delayed due to the loss of the doors during shipment, and the opening of the 190-yard banked track was delayed to allow stripes to be painted. Also, the archery and golf ranges, exercise rooms, and combative-dance room required the installation of additional equipment.

References

Potosnak, T. (Editor). (1979). [Yearbook article]. The Key 1979. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 138). pp. 214-219. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/138

Potosnak, T. (1979, January 4). Student recreation center opens. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3558). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3558

The opening of the courts was delayed due to the loss of the court doors during shipment. Within 35 minutes of opening, forty one-hour slots were reserved. The remaining courts were completed by the end of the month.

References

Center's courts open. (1979, January 18). [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3566). p. 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3566

Potosnak, T. (1979, January 4). Student recreation center opens. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3558). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3558

Dr. Hooley taught at the University from 1954 until 1977. She was involved in physical education and physiology, health education, and recreation and physical education for the handicapped. In 1975 she was named "Outstanding Recreation Educator of the Year" by Ohio Parks and Recreation Association. She was also Professor Emerita of Physical Education and Recreation. At the time of her retirement she was the author of more than 30 professional publications and two books. Dr. Hooley is quoted in the 1977 Key Yearbook as saying, "There is no teaching unless there is learning...Students teach us about as much as we teach them."

References

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1979-01-18. (1979). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes. Bowling Green State University. (Paper 635). pp. 5-6. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/635

Dr. Agnes M. Hooley. (1977). [Yearbook photograph]. Venner, L. (ed.). The Key 1977. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 136). pp. 48. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/136

Venner, L. (Editor). (1977). [Yearbook article]. The Key 1977. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 136). pp. 48. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/136

According to Gregory T. DeCrane, director of Student Activities, the idea for the tipover event stemmed from a man’s an attempt to break a world record by setting up 100,000 dominoes for the Hemophilia Foundation. Dr. Paul F. Haas, president of the Northwest Ohio Hemophlia Foundation and associate professor of economics, asked DeCrane if Student Activities could set up a tipover competition to raise awareness of the serious effects of hemophilia, as well as money for the Hemophilia Foundation. DeCrane and three others developed the competition rules and promoted the event. According to Tom D. Abrahamson, graduate assistant for Student Activities, BGSU was the first university to pick up the “Tipover for Hemophilia” competition as a student program.

The competition consisted of three elimination rounds. During each round, five-member teams built and knocked down domino structures. Teams were awarded points according to the amount of money raised, creativity of the formations, fastest setup time, successful execution of the five required moves, and the slowest falling-down time. The four teams with the highest number of points proceeded to round two, and two teams from the second round faced off in the final round.

The event began on February 5, 1979, with six teams and 1,000 dominoes. During the semifinals on February 12, three teams competed using 2,500 dominoes, and during the finals on February 19, the remaining two teams each set up 5,000 dominoes. During the first round of competition a category was added for the most pledges obtained by a team. However, the team was only permitted to collect 100 percent of its pledges if the formation did not have to be restarted. Each time the formation was restarted, 10 percent was deducted from the pledge. During the 1979 competition almost $550 was pledged according to DeCrane.

The Pushovers team, made of up Al Linne, hall director of Rodgers Quadrangle, and four other hall directors from the Office of Residence Life, won the first tipover competition against the A-B Staff team (short for Anderson-Bromfield), which consisted of John Vautier, Anderson hall director, a resident, and three resident advisors from Chapman, Anderson, and Bromfield. Referencing the hours involved and construction of extra gimmicks, Al Linne commented that he “didn’t know it was going to get this elaborate.” The Pushovers brainstormed and practiced setting up their formations the Sunday nights before the competitions. During the final round, The Pushovers started their formation with a one-inch toy robot that pushed the first domino off a tripod located on the mezzanine (balcony). The domino then traveled down a string pulley to the main floor area. In a previous round, the team used a water pistol to start.

The A-B Staff team also experimented with various gimmicks including a high-pitched frequency device that turned on the power of an electric typewriter. The first domino was knocked over when the carriage returned. The A-B Team also used candles and pendulums to set off four mousetraps, sending dominoes flying in the air.

The competition was held annually until at least 1983, and in 1980 BGSU teams competed against teams from the University of Toledo in the first intercollegiate competition of its kind in the United States. During the 1980 competition, the BGSU Residence Life team defeated The University of Toledo team, and the competition raised more than $930 for the Hemophilia Foundation.

References

Briethaupt, F. (Editor). (1980). [Yearbook photographs]. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 139). pp. 295, 316, 325, 335. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/139

Mitchell, T. (Photographer). & Briethaupt, F. (Editor). (1981). [Yearbook photographs]. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 140). p. 328. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/140

Danaceau, K. (Photographer). (1979, February 7). The BG News. [Newspaper photograph]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3577). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3577

Danaceau, K. (Photographer). (1979, February 21). The BG News. [Newspaper photograph]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3585). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3585

Dannemiller, M. (1979, February 21). Hemophilia benefit offers creative opportunities. The BG News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3585). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3585

Schippers, S. (Editor). (1979). [Yearbook photographs]. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 138). p. 304-305. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/138

Hemophilia contest to kick off next week. (1979, January 30). The BG News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3572). p. 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3572

Residence Life wins tipover. (1980, March 12). The BG News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3721). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3721

Tipover: A real ‘block party’ for charity. (1983, February 11). The BG News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4097). p. 5. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/4097

University team is ‘tipover’ champion. (1980, May 22). The BG News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3753). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3753

Westhoven, T. (Photographer). (1980, March 4). The BG News. [Newspaper photograph]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3716). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3716

The day's events began shortly before noon, when guests first gathered on the balcony to enjoy a consommé appetizer followed by a luncheon in the Club Pool area. At the conclusion of the luncheon, the guests were directed to the activity center on the main level where the Student Recreation Center dedication ceremony was held at 1:30 PM.

Dr. Eakin, vice provost, began the ceremony by introducing each of the ribbon cutting participants. Participants in the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony included University President Dr. Hollis A. Moore, Board of Trustees Chair John F. Lipaj, Board of Trustees member Albert Dyckes, and Undergraduate Student Representative Frank Aveni. Following the ribbon cutting, keys to the facility were presented to Student Recreation Center Director Ben McGuire and John F. Lipaj by Thomas T. K. Zung, architect, and Art Carter, representative of the general contractor, Mosser Construction Co. in Fremont, OH.

Following the ribbon cutting ceremony, guests were directed to the Olympic-sized swimming pool area to take part in a ceremony commemorating the naming of the pool in honor of Dr. Samuel M. Cooper.

The following people were invited to the dedication ceremonies:

• Mr. & Mrs. Albert Dyckes

• Mr. & Mrs. Shad Hanna

• Mr. & Mrs. John Lipaj

• Mr. & Mrs. Robert Ludwig

• Mr. & Mrs. Frazier Reams

• Mr. & Mrs. Norman Rood

• Mr. & Mrs. Robert Savage

• Mr. & Mrs. Charles Shanklin

• Mr. & Mrs. Arthur Spiegel

• Dr. & Mrs. Hollis Moore

• Mr. & Mrs. Richard Edwards

• Dr. & Mrs. Michael Ferrari

• Dr. & Mrs. Richard Eakin

• Mr. & Mrs. James Hof

• Mr. & Mrs. George Postich

• Mr. Frank Aveni

• Mr. Mark Kerns

• Mr. & Mrs. Charles Codding

• Ms. Bernice Waggoner

• Mr. & Mrs. Earl Rupright

• Mr. John White

• Dr. & Mrs. Sam Cooper

• Ms. Sue Hager

• Mr. & Mrs. Tom Stubbs

• Mr. & Mrs. Elton Ringer

• Ms. Jean Campbell

• Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Zung

• Mr. Kenneth Papes

• Mr. & Mrs. David Miano

• Mr. Robert Chin

• Mr. & Mrs. Skip Carter

• Mr. & Mrs. Marv Davis

• Mr. Robert Weiler

• Mr. & Mrs. Roland Engler

• Mr. & Mrs. Keith Pogan

• Mr. & Mrs. Mark Bailey

• Mr. & Mrs. Robert Vollmer

• Mr. Mike Voll

• Mr. Theodore Forsberg

• Mr. & Mrs. Mike Wilcox

• Mr. Dennis Bottonari

• Mr. & Mrs. Rob Martin

• Mr. Dennis Smith

• Mr. Dan Garfield

• Ms. Sally Fish

• Mrs. Sharon Kearin

• Mr. David Crowl

• Ms. Ann Shanklin

• Mr. & Mrs. Paul Nusser

• Mr. Ronald Bell

• Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Wilty

• Mr. & Mrs. Walter Stapf

• Mrs. George Snyder

• Mr. & Mrs. Jeffery Angell

• Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Hutton

• Mr. & Mrs. Cliff Boutelle

• Mr. & Mrs. Patrick Sullivan

• Dr. Annie Clement

• Mr. & Mrs. Alvin Perkins

• Dr. & Mrs. Eldon Snyder

• Dr. Richard Bowers

• Mr. & Mrs. Joe Rooks

• Ms. Sally Haltom

• Ms. Missie Nicholson

• Mr. Shawn Walsh

• Ms. Barbara VanHala

• Ms. Jill Holden

• Ms. Agnes Hooley

• Mr. & Mrs. Ben McGuire

• Mr. & Mrs. John Ketzer

• Ms. Kathy Rittler

• Mr. Nobby Emmanuel

• Mr. & Mrs. James McGuire

• Mr. Lou Marciani

References

Bowling Green State University, "Schedule of events" [Event schedule]. Bowling Green, OH: BGSU Recreation and Wellness.

Dannemiller, M. (1979, February 9). Student rec center is 'a dream come true'. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3579). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3579

McGuire, B. (1979, January 24). [Letter to Dr. Richard Eakin]. Copy in possession of BGSU Recreation and Wellness.

Upon conclusion of the ribbon cutting ceremony, the guests were directed to the Olympic-sized swimming pool to take part in a ceremony commemorating the naming of the pool in honor of Dr. Samuel M. Cooper. During his career at BGSU, Dr. Cooper served as chairman of the Health and Physical Education Department and was also the University swim coach.

More than 100 of "Sam's Swimmers" and divers attended the dedication ceremony, and were identified by orange signs around their necks containing their name, graduation year, and the words "here to dedicate Coach Sam Cooper Pool and real proud of it." In addition, approximately 10 swimming coaches associated with Dr. Cooper were present.

Through the combined efforts of pledges and contributions from 60 University alumni and former swimmers, the alumni scoreboard in the Cooper Pool area was purchased. Approximately $28,000 in pledges and contributions were raised, allowing the University to purchase a scoreboard that was much more elaborate than what the Student Recreation Center budget would have allowed.

To begin the ceremony President Moore spoke about the importance of the pool from the standpoint of University administration. Next, Albert Dyckes shared his memories as a former student of Dr. Cooper. Tom Stubbs then spoke as a colleague and fellow swimming coach. Finally, Robert Frary spoke on behalf of the alumni and made a presentation of a facsimile of a plaque with the names of the people who donated to the Sam Cooper Scoreboard.

To conclude the ceremony Mr. Dyckes and Mr. Stubbs presented an etched brass plaque to Dr. Cooper, and Dr. Cooper gave a short speech. Known for never being at a loss for words, the planning committee noted in the event schedule that "if he [Dr. Cooper] exceeds that time [5 minutes], he will be pushed into the Pool."

During the event Dr. Cooper is quoted as saying, "you've surely made one old-timer very, very happy today." He also thanked his former swimmers and divers, stating that they were "the finest athletes that this University ever had, or at least the cleanest."

Dr. Cooper also expressed his appreciation in a letter to Dr. Richard Eakin, Vice President of Student Affairs. He wrote, “I know you and your office spent many hours of time and effort to bring about the dedication of the Student Recreation Center and Cooper Pool and I want to thank you and tell you how much appreciated it was. It was one of the most significant and memorable days of my life and was also greatly enjoyed by members of my family. Please accept my thanks and convey to any others working with you on the affair my appreciation for a grand event especially well done.”

Following the ceremony, the first home swim meet against the University of Miami was held in the Cooper Pool. A triangular fencing meet was also scheduled for 2:00 PM, and tours of the facility were given.

As of January 29, 1979, the following alumni and former swimmers had made a contribution to the Alumni Scoreboard fundraising effort:

• Paul A. Atkinson ‘56

• August R. Brown ‘51

• John F. Bruce ‘53

• John R. Caldwell ‘65

• Wayne D. Chester ‘73

• Howard M. Comstock ‘63

• Lawrence G. Cook ‘76

• Thomas M. Curran ‘69

• Ronald A. Dall ‘54

• Paul A. Dressel ‘56

• George A. Ensign ‘53

• Robert D. Frary ‘50

• Joseph Garbo ‘57

• Frederick B. Gerbing ‘55

• David A. Hamilton ‘56

• Daniel R. Holmes ‘72

• Bruce D. Horsfall ‘55

• Evelyn Cooper Hutton

• Kenneth E. Hutton

• David S. Jamison ‘53

• Duane J. Jastremski ‘74

• Alexander (Sandy) Kennedy ‘69

• Robert F. Knauer, Jr. ‘64

• Gary D. LaPrise ‘62

• Kurt D. Lee ‘78

• Robert C. Leuten ‘77

• Edward M. Levy ‘54

• Jeffrey D. Liedel ‘77

• Raymond G. Martin, Jr. ‘60

• Bill L. Miller ‘54

• William W. Muir, Jr. ‘58

• Frank M. Mutz ‘71

• James A. Orth ‘59

• Charles Parsons ‘50

• Richard P. Pixley ‘64

• Mary Stahl Primrose ‘42

• Richard E. Rose ‘58

• Robert J. Ruth ‘36

• William A. Sarver ‘75

• Paul F. Smith

• Thomas H. Snitch ‘75

• Roger D. Southworth ‘64

• William T. Stark

• Alex Steve ‘50

• Wayne C. Stiffler ‘63

• Raymond M. Stout, Jr. ‘65

• Tom Stubbs ‘49

• Patrick Sullivan ‘55

• Michael J. Symons ‘65

• James D. Torgler ‘61

• William J. Van Almen ‘50

• Paul G. Vogel ‘61

• Barry P. Walsh ‘62

• Ralph E. Weibel ‘61

• William E. Wittenmyer ‘75

• Thomas E. Wolff ‘73

• Charles E. Woodfil ‘51

• Donald R. Worsfold ‘59

• Michael Zinn ‘65

• Ronald E. Zwierlein ‘68

References

Bowling Green State University. “Dedication swim meet” [Event program]. Mickey Cochrane Collection on Bowling Green State University Athletics Programs (unprocessed, consult CAC staff). Bowling Green, OH: BGSU Center for Archival Collections.

Bowling Green State University. "Schedule of events" [Event schedule]. Bowling Green, OH: BGSU Recreation and Wellness.

Dannemiller, M. (1979, February 13). Former coach honored at dedication. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3580). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3580

Cooper, S. M. (1979, February 21). [Letter to Dr. Richard Eakin]. BGSU Center for Archival Collections (Design and Construction, Box 4, Folder 33), Bowling Green, OH.

The archery and golf room was designated for archery at specific times during which a supervisor was present. All other times the room was used for golf. Archery equipment was available for checkout at no extra cost.

Prior to the construction of the Student Recreation Center, students practiced archery outdoors close to the present-day Ice Arena. Once the Ice Arena was constructed in 1967, students were able to practice inside where the north bleachers currently stand.

References

Archery room now open. (1979, March 30). [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3598). p. 6. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3598

Fellman, P. (Photographer). (1986, January 28). [Newspaper photograph]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4476). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/4476

University archery teacher aims for school excellence: Instructor helped design Rec, coached gymnastics. (1995, March 3). [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 5823). pp. 2, 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/5823

A waterski team consists of five men and five women that compete in three events; slalom, jumping and trick skiing. Starting strong in 1979, the team finished second at the Intercollegiate Waterski Tournament at Ohio State University. Members Dana Paton, Tom Meese, Scott Tripp, Craig Fankhauser, Bill Guist, and Lisa Johnson were runner-up to OSU. In 1979 the team went on to finish 6th in the nation at the first Intercollegiate Nationals in Monroe, Louisiana. Despite the team's geographical location, BGSU students traveled to Lake Indiana for practices as there was no facility in Bowling Green, and were one of only 10 to qualify for nationals held that year.

After Fankhauser graduated in 1983, momentum for team involvement decreased to only five members until Toby Swick became the new president. He became interested in BGSU because of a friendship with Fankhauser from whom he learned of the success of the team. When Swick took over the helm of the Waterski Club, the budget from BGSU totaled $600 annually. The group provided their own equipment, was able to acquire a boat donated by Toby’s father, and practiced on the Maumee River in Toledo. This year, the club rose to 50 members and fielded a team of 15 competitors. In the fall of 1986, the team persisted with 40 active skiers and practiced at Coldwater Lake in Michigan.

In the 80’s, national interest was growing around waterskiing. The National Collegiate Water Ski Association was attempting to get the sport sanctioned by the National Collegiate Athletic Association. Benefits of doing so would allow for top-notch coaching, facilities and equipment, and better access to nutrition. Becoming a part of the NCAA gives athletes more opportunities to travel to competitions and funding to provide the educational, financial, health and safety needs of student-athletes.

The team was inactive for most of the 1990’s, and was re-established in 2002 by Ryan Whaley who recruited 60 students to the organization. The group decided to continue practicing on the Maumee River, with the help of the Toledo Club’s 6-foot ramp for jumping skills. As of February 2017, the team maintains a roster of 25 members and rely on their own connections to find practice venues. The BGSU Waterski Club practices during the summer and in the fall as long as weather permits. To be eligible for the club, a student must demonstrate swimming ability, and to enter competitions, at least 5 men and 5 woman members are required. The 2017 team competed in tournaments every weekend in September, and qualified for regionals under leadership of president, Ali Mollet, who placed 2nd in Women’s slalom and 4th overall at regionals held in Decatur, Illinois, where the team as a whole came in 13th.

Sources:

Club Clips. (1979, April 19). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3609). p.11. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3609

Club Clips. (1979, May 23). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3628). p.8. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3628/

Club Clips. (1979, October 18). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3657). p.10. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3657/

‘Unlikely’ BG team to nationals. (1980, May 29). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3756). p.8. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3756/

BG skiers rise from the deep. (1985, August 29). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4409). p.9. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/4409/

Waterskiers in dry dock. (1986, September 26). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4557). p.3. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/4557/

“Waiting For The Ice To Break.” (2003). [Yearbook article]. The Key 2003. Bowling Green State University. (Book 162). P.90-91. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/162/

Myers, Kari. (2017, February 9). [Newspaper article]. Waterski team grows membership. BG Falcon Media, Retrieved from http://www.bgfalconmedia.com/campus/waterski-team-grows-membership/article_05580dc4-ee9a-11e6-b306-f3d311b16657.html

A. Mollet (Personal communication, March 2, 2017).

[Student-Athlete Benefits]. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.ncaa.org/about/resources/finances/student-athlete-benefits

[Benefits to College Student-Athletes]. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.ncaa.org/student-athletes/benefits-college-student-athletes

All event activities were free and included handball, racquetball, table tennis, and foosball tournaments, as well as short-person dunk, blindfolded free throw, and basketball speed shooting contests. At noon balloons and pieces of a giant birthday cake were given out at the main entrance, and beginning at 1:00 PM, live music was featured in the Activities Center.

Reference

Rec center to mark birthday. (1980, February 9). The BG News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3703). p. 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3703

The 600 gallon tub held six to eight people comfortably and was a popular item since its opening in October 1981. According to Greg Jordon, associate director of the Student Recreation Center, the hot tub was always in use when the club pool was open. During peak hours, students would wait in line for a spot to open up.

References

Fuchs, A. (Photographer), & Breithaupt, F. (Editor). (1981). [Yearbook photograph]. The Key 1981. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 140). p. 108. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/140

Landes, J. (1981). Getting a face lift. [Yearbook article]. Breithaupt, F. (ed.). The Key 1981. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 140). p. 108. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/140

The pilot program was launched by the Sports Physiology Laboratory, the Center for Career Development and Counseling, and the Student Recreation Center. The purpose of the program was to provide University faculty and staff with an opportunity to continue or begin their workouts. The project featured daily lectures on how to handle stress, proper nutrition, and the best approach to exercise. People enrolled in the program also received a stress test so that individual programs could be developed.

Reference

Faculty-staff fitness program to begin. (1981, January 9). [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3813). p. 5. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3813

The original program was a two-day event at the Student Recreation Center that replaced the quarterly All-Nighter event. According to Dr. Parsons, the new L.I.F.E. program was "a kick-off to total health" that explored all aspects of conditioning the body. The 1981 L.I.F.E. program was free to Rec Center members, and open to non-members at a cost of $1.00 for adults and $.50 for children under 12.

During the event a Health Fair was held in the Activity Center from 1-4 PM and 6-9 PM on the first day. Professional and student organization run booths were available to provide fitness assessments as well as suggestions on how to improve personal health. Services included information, testing, and evaluation, and topics included nutrition, cancer education, athletic injuries, hypertension screening, glaucoma testing, family planning, smoking, height and weight measurements, and fitness step testing.

The opening ceremony took place at 5:30 PM in the Sports Center and was followed by a three ring circus featuring nationally famous dancing unicyclists from BGSU. Throughout the evening a variety of activities for both adults and children were held. In addition, BGSU alumni who became professional athletes volunteered to participate in the activities.

Activities included "New Games for Kids," Cleveland Browns highlights films shown by defensive lineman Marshall Harris, the motivational film "Pack Your Own Chute," a panel discussion on the benefits of running, and a professional billiards demonstration by Jack White. In addition there were programs offered entitled, "The Future of Women in Sports," "Life as a Player for the Cincinnati Reds," "Life in Professional Football," "How to Improve Your Life," and a "Do Your Own Thing" program which encouraged everyone to participate in their favorite activities.

Demonstrations and clinics were held on Saturday from 9 AM to 12 noon. Professional athlete volunteers included Phil Villapiano of the Buffalo Bills, Mark Miller of the Green Bay Packers, and Kip Young and Doug Bair of the Cincinnati Reds. In addition, clinics in racquetball, squash, weight training, karate, golf, archery, badminton, fencing, basketball, and frisbee were offered. About 200 students and area children attended clinics conducted by professional athletes.

References

Come to life at the student rec center. (1981, February 5). [Newspaper ad]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3828). p. 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3828

Kardiac kids. (1981). [Yearbook photograph caption]. Breithaupt, F. (ed.). BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 140). p. 270. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/140

Keeler, S. (Photographer), & Breithaupt, F. (Editor). (1981) [Yearbook photograph]. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 140). p. 270. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/140

Rec center gets breath of LIFE. (1981, February 5). [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3828). p. 6. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3828

The event was planned as an end of the school year celebration with food, contests, games, prizes, square dancing, aquatics and frisbee exhibitions, a costume contest, and a showing of the film “Hot Lead, Cold Feet.” The theme, “Spring Round Up,” was country western, and a great way to ‘round up’ the school year.

The Student Recreation Center continued to host Late Night events over the next couple decades, and in 2002, over 1,000 students participated in Late Night at the Rec for free food and games. Besides providing students an opportunity to socialize, the event also gave students who were new to the University a chance to check out the equipment in the facility and learn about the variety of educational resources available at the Student Recreation Center.

Late Night events that have been held throughout the years include Big Playground and Monster Mash. Big Playground started as a Late Night event in 1998 with over 450 students participating. The Big Playground was part of the BGSU Binge Drinking and Violence Prevention Program, and students were encouraged to bring items related to drinking or alcohol in exchange for raffle tickets. There were different incentives for students who participated whether it was a free t-shirt, spirit-wear, or the grand prizes, which included a mountain bike and Sony PlayStation. Tracey Gavin, project coordinator explained that they were “looking to get people doing something different…A lot of people have the perception that drinking is the only activity.” Activities offered at the 1999 Big Playground provided students with the opportunity to play popular childhood games such as dodgeball, jump rope, water volleyball, finger-painting, and games in inflatables. The event was a fun way to bring back childhood memories, win prizes and also change the perception of the activities on campus.

The Monster Mash late night event was established as early as 2000 as a fun and healthy alternative to partying on Halloween. The 2000 Monster Mash event featured a creepy carnival health fair and bake sale, aerobics combo, haunted house, a movie, and the Monster Dash 5K walk/run.

Late night events were originally organized by the SRC, but were sponsored by a variety of other departments throughout the early 2000s. Different departments received funding that allowed them to organize fun activities for students. The Wellness Connection joined the Department of Recreational Sports in 2009 and organized the yearly event from then on.

Even though the sponsors of this event changed throughout the years, the purpose of the event remained the same––to educate students on a variety of health and wellness topics, provide a safe, supportive environment free of drugs and alcohol, and build a sense of community through entertainment and opportunities to socialize.

References

Breese, L. (2002, August 28). ‘Late Night’ a great night for students. The BG News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 6983). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/6983

Brown, A. L. (1999, February 26). Rec center hosts big playground. The BG News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 6457). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/6457

Gifford, C. (2000, October 31). SRC sponsors the monster mash bash. The BG News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 6711). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/6711

Keegan, A. (Photographer). (2002, August 28). The BG News [Newspaper photograph]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 6983). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/6983

The BG News April 22, 1981 (1981). The BG News. [Newspaper ad]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3861). p. 6. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3861

Van Horn, A. (Photographer). (1998, February 16). The BG News. [Newspaper photograph].

BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 6289). p. 6. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/6289

Dr. Terry Parsons received a master's of education degree at BGSU in 1963. After earning his doctoral degree at Ohio State University he worked at Otterbein College and Mount Union College. Dr. Parsons returned to BGSU in 1970 to teach and later served as chair of the Health and Physical Education Department, assistant to the dean of the College of Education, acting director of the Student Recreation Center, and finally, director of the Student Recreation Center.

Dr. Parson's served as the Director of Recreational Sports until his retirement in the summer of 1992.

References

Barnes, M. (1981, September 29). Parsons named as new director of rec center. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3898). p. 5. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3898

Bowling Green State University. SRC Timeline. [Timeline]. Bowling Green, OH: BGSU Recreation and Wellness.

Forrest Creason dedicated 37 years of service to the University. He was the University golf coach from 1957-69, and his coaching record was 119-116-7. He was also an associate professor of health and physical education department and an athletic ticket director. He retired from teaching on July 1, 1975.

During the Board of Trustees meeting in which the decision was made to name the golf course for Forrest Creason, Dr. Ferrari said, "this is an excellent way to recognize Mr. Creason's long service and contributions to the University."

References

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 1982-02-12. (1982). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes. Bowling Green State University. (Paper 659). p. 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/659

Creason, Cooper retire. (1975, June 26). [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3131). p. 7. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3131

The Fitness Trail was sponsored by the Student Recreation Center and described by Dr. Terry Parsons, SRC director, as "an extension of the fitness program for the University and community."

Participants experienced the cardiovascular benefits of a running program through a self-guided and self-paced outdoor, 1.75 mile long, paved jogging trail, as well as strength and flexibility gains made possible through the use of eighteen intermittent exercise stations along the route. The combination of fitness options was specifically designed to assure a total experience for participants.

The Fitness Trail was located on the eastern edge of campus with the start and finish adjacent to the Ice Arena. The course followed the sidewalks from the Ice Arena to the football stadium and around the north side of the stadium. The location also provided runners with the option to use the quarter-mile Whittaker Track. It offered three course lengths, eighteen different exercise stations, and an intensity of nine differing degrees.

The Fitness Trail was open daily from dawn to dusk to people of all ages and levels of fitness. Trail maps and usage scorecards were available at the SRC Office. Introductory sessions were offered April 19-23, 1982.

References

Bowling Green State University. SRC Resource Guide 1989-90. [Resource guide]. Bowling Green, OH: BGSU Recreation and Wellness.

Bowling Green State University. Staying Fit. [Brochure]. Bowling Green, OH: BGSU Recreation and Wellness.

Rec Center trail urges fitness. (1982, April 15). [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3983). p. 6. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3983

Take the trail to fitness. (1982, April 9). [Newspaper ad]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 3980). p. 4.

http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/3980

The Youth Fun and Fitness Days Program was created when the Student Recreation Center opened for faculty use. Originally, the program was only available to the children of BGSU faculty. However, it later expanded to include the children of all Student Recreation Center members and also the public if spots were available. The program was open to children in grades one through six.

The objectives of the program were to help children recognize the importance of health, safety, and good leisure-time activities, to introduce children to different sports and teach good sportsmanship through both competitive and cooperative sports, and to provide children the opportunity to see campus programs through visits and hands-on experience.

Children could participate in various indoor and outdoor physical activities that varied over the years. Some of the activities offered were swimming, sailing, ice skating, racquetball, kick ball, soccer, and whiffle ball, and outdoor games. Over the years various field trips were also offered such as campus and community tours, visits to WBGU-TV, the Wood County Airport, and sailing. Enrollment in the program had declined in 1992 and was discontinued soon after.

References

SRC youth fun and fitness days. (1987, April 29). [Newspaper ad]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4660). p. 5. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/4660

Griffith, D. (1987, April 24). Health and fitness goal of rec program. [Newspaper article]. The BG News: Friday Magazine. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4657). p. 15. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/4657

Hill, L. (1986, July 2). Children learn physical fitness: Active lifestyle made enjoyable through rec center program. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4531). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/4531

Hoppert, T. (1991, June 26). SRC fills void for active children: Youth fun and fitness program lets kids exercise and explore university. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4230). p. 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/5230

McQuiller, H. (1992, July 8). Rec youth program fades: Enrollment is down for annual Fun and Fitness event. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 5390). p. 5. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/5390

The anniversary party included a cake and commemorative birthday cards, and was open to the campus community.

The following people were invited to the SRC 5th anniversary celebration:

University President and Vice Presidents

• Dr. Paul Olscamp & Trustees (current)

• Dr. Eloise E. Clark

• Dr. Richard R. Eakin

• Dr. Karl E. Vogt

• Dr. Mary M. Edmonds

• Mr. Richard A. Edwards

1975 - 79 Trustees

• Charles Shanklin

• John Lipaj

• Ashel Bryan

• Arthur Spiegel

• Donald Simmons

• Frazier Reams

• Robert Savage

• Mrs. Ward

Individuals

• Diane Barnhart

• Ginny Amos

• Julie Iler

• Janet Rowe

• Ron Zwierlein

• Don Luikart

• Phil Koester

• Jan Bailey

• Warren Scholler

• Jill Holden

• Herm Kline

• Beth Rooks

• Sally Alcock

• Kathy Rittler

• Jan ScottBey

• Paul Nusser

• Maury Sandy

• Linda Snyder

• Bob Arrowsmith

• Dick Lenhart

• Marion Karas

• Jack Gregory

• Dr. Betty van der Smissen

• Ron Bell

• Sally Fish

• Phil Mason

• Kenneth Papes

• John White

• Dr. Sam Cooper

• Ms. Sue Hager

• Mr. Tom Stubbs

• Elton Ringer

• Jean Campbell

Past Student Recreation Center Council (SRCC) members

Past graduate assistants

Current SRC staff

Current maintenance and custodial employees

Recreation Facilities Committee members

• Mike Wilcox

• Dennis Bottonari

• Barb Silver Martin

• Norman Rood

• Dan Garfield

• Sharon Deyling Kearin

• David Crowl

• Ann Shanklin Gustasson

• Dr. Nobby Emmanuel

• Paul Haas

• Barb Keller

• Eldon Snyder

• Gary Davis

• Lee Olsen

• Syd Scott

• Sue Smith

• Mark T. Walker

• Ray Whittaker

• Dr. Agnes Hooley

• Cliff Boutelle

University Architect's Office

• Roland Engler

• Keith Pogan

• Marsha Frisbee

Physical Plant

• Harold Junk

• Barney Michaels

• Ray Michaels

• Frank Finch

Zung and Associates, Inc.

• Thomas Zung

• David Miano

• Robert Chen

Building Committee

• Mark Kerns

• Charles Codding

• Bernice Waggoner

• Earl Rupright

• Mr. & Mrs. Patrick Sullivan

• Dr. Annie Clement

• Mr. & Mrs. Alvin Perkins

• Mr. & Mrs. Bruce Bellard

Student Representatives

• Brian Baird

• Karen Washbush

• Bev E. Baker

• Craig Vickio

General Contractors

• Skip Carter

• Marv Davis

• Robert Weiler

References

Bowling Green State University. SRC 5th birthday celebration invitation list. [Invitation list]. Bowling Green, OH: BGSU Recreation and Wellness.

Brown, G. (1984, January 19). Rec center celebrates 5th year, stresses fitness. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4207). p. 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/4207

The April Fool's joke was deemed a success in the following Friday's (March 30) issue of the BG News. About a dozen people believed the article and called the Student Recreation Center.

According to Karen DeRosa, assistant director of the SRC, a woman whose daughter was enrolled in the water babies program called the facility to complain about the uncleanliness of the exhibit. A biology student also called "to say she was disappointed the story was a fake."

Also, during a tour of the facility, a University tour guide pointed to the pool and informed parents and prospective students that it was the location for the exhibit.

According to DeRosa, the article was intended as a joke and the SRC employees were notified in advance to reassure callers of this.

The March 27 article published in the Green Sheet contained the following text:

Had it up to the gills with the usual weekend entertainment? Marineworld will offer something a little different when it brings its national touring aquarium exhibit to Bowling Green noon to 5 p.m. Sunday (April1) at the Cooper Pool, Student Rec Center.

The exhibition is being sponsored by the University Aquatics Organization, Students for Mammals, and the department of marine biology. All events are free and open to all.

On Saturday (March 31), the Cooper Pool will be closed for preparations. Marine biologists from Marine World will drain 35,000 gallons from the 870,000 gallon pool to add the necessary 4% saline solution to simulate sea water.

The exhibit will include a variety of sharks, barracuda, octopi, eels, and other exotic and colorful species. The underwater windows will be open for viewing the sea creatures. Metal dividers will close off the shallow end of the pool as a petting tank housing porpoises. Food will be sold to feed the porpoises.

Porpoise, seal, and penguin shows will be held at noon, 2 p.m., and 4 p.m. This stop will be the third in a three month spring tour, planned to promote the coming summer season at Marineworld. The animal trainers are extremely proud of their talented students, and the show has already begun to gain local acclaim. "We are continually surprised at the intelligence of our porpoises," said April Phoolsdy, a Marineworld spokesperson.

In conjunction with the aquarium exhibit, the Rec Center and UAO will cosponsor a fish fry and dance. The Club Pool will be stocked with rainbow trout for an all day "Huckleberry Finn Fish Fry" from noon to midnight. Admission will be free for those attired in Huck Finn/Becky Thatcher garb, $1 for others. Fishing poles will be rented for $.75 per hour. Representatives for UAO and the Rec Center will clean and fry fishers' catches. French fries and beverages will be sold, and local bands will provide live entertainment.

As an extra bonus, a costume contest will be held. Winners of the Huck Finn/Becky Thatcher look-a-like competition will be awarded a weekend trip for two to Marineworld, 20 minutes west of San Diego.

Marineworld has been pleased with its reception on the tour so far. "Our audiences are beginning to realize just how remarkable these creatures are," Phoolsdy said. "Sometimes I think they're more intelligent than humans." Perhaps she's right.

April Fools.

References

Marine exhibit at Rec? (1984, March 30). The BG News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4244). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/4244

Marine exhibit in Rec Center pool. (1984, March 27). Green Sheet.

Other films shown throughout the years include a 3-D version of "The Creature From the Black Lagoon" (1987), and "Splash" in Cooper Pool. The Dive-In Movie events were later moved to Andrews pool where "The Perfect Storm" (2001), "Swimfan" (2003), "The Switch" (2011) were among the films shown, and "The Wedding Ringer" (2015).

References

Banks, S. (1989, March 28). 'Dive-in' movie offered at rec. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4923). p. 5. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/4923

Burkett, A. (1987, January 23). L.I.F.E. program scheduled. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4607). p. 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/4607

Dive-in and see Jaws. (1984, April 13). [Newspaper ad]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4252). p. 8. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/4252

Get a life. (2002, August 30). [Newspaper event calendar]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 6985). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/6985

Get a life. (2003, August 29). [Newspaper event calendar]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 7144). p. 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/7144

Splash into summer with UAO and the Wellness Center. (2011, March 31). [Newspaper ad]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 8392). p. 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/8392

The BiG welcome. (2001, September 17). [Newspaper ad]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 6836). p. 9. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/6836

The Student Rec Center presents the 1987 L.I.F.E. Program (leisure, information/fitness evaluation). (1987, January 23). [Newspaper ad]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4607). p. 9. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/4607

According to Michelle Rolston, assistant director/interim of the Student Recreation Center, drop-in programs, classes, information sessions, special events, and three different free drop-in programs were available to promote good health and fitness. The drop-in programs, Fit-For-All Aerobics, Weight Room Awareness, and Water Aerobics, were free of charge.

Fit-For-All Aerobics was divided into three levels of difficulty. The green/top level was a 25 minute session called "Go For It," the yellow/intermediate level was a 15-20 minute session called "Exercise with Caution," and the red level was an 8-10 minute program for beginners called "Easy Does It." Rolston explained that the green workout was the most popular, but participants were advised to start at the most comfortable level and work their way up.

To ensure proper placement in one of the three different levels, participants were asked to take a fitness test in the L.I.F.E. Room. However, the testing was not required for program participation. Fitness testing was also available to participants three times throughout the semester to gauge their improvement. The testing included a cardiovascular step test, sit-ups, push-ups, a flexibility test, and a body fat test.

While the majority of participants in aerobics classes were women, Rolston noted that the number of male participants had increased as the weeks progressed. To help men feel more comfortable participating, a Fitness for Men activity was also offered, which focused on calisthenics and activities such as running and basketball.

In order to accommodate the busier schedules of faculty and staff, a noon workout and a 30-Minute Workout were added to the program as well. Rolston commented, “We’re striving to get the faculty and staff into it,” and added that the noon workout is sometimes the only time available for teachers to exercise.

Water aerobics classes were also held in the Club Pool two days a week and were taught by Rolston. The water aerobics classes followed the same format as regular aerobics, but according to Rolston they did not move as fast and excluded some of the "dancey" movements that were made more difficult in the water.

References

Davy, W. (1985, January 24). Fitness tips offered. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4343). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/4343

Skinner, P. (1985, February 8). Rec offers water aerobics. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4352). pp. 2, 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/4352

Skinner, P. (1985, September 26). Fitness leaders chosen. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4425). p. 7. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/4425

Student Recreation Center spring fitness program Fit-For-All Aerobics. (1985, January 18). [Newspaper ad]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4340). p. 5. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/4340

Student Recreation Center spring fitness program Fit-For-All Aerobics.(1985, June 12). [Newspaper ad]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4397). p. 8. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/4397

Student Recreation Center Fit-For-All Aerobics. (1985, September 20). [Newspaper ad]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4422). p. 7. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/4422

The objective of the Fitwell program was to encourage people to assess their health status, make an effort to improve it, and learn how to maintain good lifestyle habits.The program was directed by Dr. Richard Bowers, professor of Health, Physical Education and Recreation and a certified exercise program director through the American College of Sports Medicine.

The Fitwell program was an optional service available to all members of the Student Recreation Center, and it included the use of state of the art equipment located in the L.I.F.E. (Leisure Information and Fitness Evaluation) Room in the Student Recreation Center. Services offered include a health and lifestyle audit, a treadmill test, a body composition analysis, a blood pressure assessment, and a cholesterol test and analysis. Based on the results of the cholesterol test, the Fitwell staff could direct clients to nutritional counseling through the Well or another campus agency.

Once clients completed the tests, they had the option to join a 12-week supervised exercise program or a self-directed exercise program. If enrolled in the 12-week program, clients also received fitness tips and an alternate aerobic exercise modes. After the 12 weeks, the client received a reevaluation of the past tests.

The program equipment was purchased for an estimated $20,000 with additional equipment being added as the program expanded. Funding was provided through donations by private citizens and corporations.

Over the years additional programs were added to Fitwell. An option for faculty and staff offered in the 90's was the Out-to-Lunch-Bunch. Cathy Swick, assistant to the director, described the program as a semi-supervised exercise program aiming towards improving an individual's overall health. The program was based on pre and post tests. The Senior Fit for Hire program was also developed in the 90's and promoted the health and fitness or senior students who would soon be joining the workforce. In this program, students were provided with a certificate stating that the individual was "concerned about fitness and interested in their health."

By 1994 Fitwell was servicing about 1,500 to 1,800 clients a year.

References

Gangemi, C. (1994, March 11). Fitwell Center provides testing on health, fitness. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 5670). p. 6. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/5670

Wadley, J. (1986, September, 11). SRC has fitness down to a science. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4548). p. 7. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/4548

Iris Andrews came to the university in 1945 to specialize in aquatics. She was best known for having directed and produced the annual Swan Club synchronized swimming show for 30 years in the old natatorium. Andrews also was a faculty member in the physical education and recreation department for 32 years.

In addition to teaching and coaching, Iris Andrews was a state aquatics chairman for the Division of Girls and Women's Sports as well as a national aquatics chairman for the American Association of Health and Physical Education. She also wrote two articles about swimming for the Encyclopedia Britannica. Iris Andrews retired from the University in 1977.

During her time at the University, Andrews won many awards. She was the first recipient of the Outstanding Faculty of the Year Award from the physical education and recreation department in 1976. She also received an Honor Award from the American Association of Health and Physical Education for her outstanding contributions to aquatics. In addition, Andrews received an Honorary Alumnus Award from the University's Alumni Association in 1984, and has also been listed in the Who's Who in the Midwest and Who's Who of American Women.

A letter-writing campaign initiated largely by alumni swimmers inspired the renaming of the pool to the Iris Andrews Club Pool. The University Board of Trustees approved the naming of the pool on March 8, 1985.

The dedication ceremony included remarks by President Paul J. Olscamp and Donna Rae Whittaker Vogel. Vogel, a 1962 graduate, spoke on behalf of the former members of the Swan Club. Shad Hanna, the Board of Trustees president also spoke during the dedication. Mary Edmunds, vice president for student affairs, Terry Parsons, director of the Student Recreation Center, and Margaret Behm, president of the Student Recreation Center Council were also present and unveiled the plaque that is still hanging in the pool area today.

References

Ceremony honors Andrews' career. (1985, October 21). [Newsletter article]. Monitor Newsletter. Bowling Green State University. (Book 797). p. 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/monitor/797

Langer, C. (1985, April 4). Rec center's Club pool renamed. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4379). p. 5. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/4379

The event consisted of a 1 mile swim in Cooper Pool and a 10k run on campus. Teams and individuals could sign up in competitive and non-competitive categories.

Reference

First annual biathlon. (1987, August 26). The BG News. [Newspaper ad]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4677). p. 9. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/4677

The program, originally called Club 88, began in the spring of 1988. The name was later changed to just Le Club 8 in 1989 in order to emphasize the program’s 8-week duration prior to spring break as well, and also because it was an ongoing program. The club started with 124 participants, which was more than double the amount Assistant Director, Tamra Summers thought was going to sign-up. Organizations that participated the first year were Health Services, University Activities Organization, Career and Counseling Center, Intramurals, Greek life, off-campus commuter center, and the Well.

The concept of the program came from Kent State University’s, Club 77, which was a similar group that focused solely on weight loss. Participation was $8 for students, and they were required to set eight goals. Donald Ardell, director of the Campus Wellness Center at the University of Central Florida in 1988, helped kick-off the program at BGSU. He explained, “We need a balance in America—more information about positive health and less attention focused on sickness.”

When the program continued in 1989, 15 graduate students participated as mentors, and each mentor led a group of 10 to 15 students. The mentors met with the groups for one hour per week and planned each activity based on what the students were most interested in learning about during the program. Some examples of activities were group sports and going to the local grocery store to learn how to read ingredients labels.

Reference

Bowling Green State University, "The BG News February 8, 1988" (1988). BGSU Student Newspaper. Book 4757. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/4757

(1989, December 1). LeClub 8 promises a new you. The BG News. Retrieved from http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/5013

Construction of the one-third mile trail surrounding the pond north of the Student Recreation Center began during the fall of 1987 by Rudolph-Libbe, Inc. The track cost $63,500, and the pace lights were $15,000 for the set. The construction took three months and was completed in December. However, delivery of the track lights was delayed.

According to Terry Parsons, Director of the Student Recreation Center, it was thought to be one of the only pace trails located on a university campus at the time. Parsons explained that "One reason the track was built because of a large number of females run on campus. However, there weren't too many locations that were (adequately) lit at night." Another reason Parsons gave for the construction of a pace trail was to provide runners with a safe alternative to running on the road.

The Pace Trail included overhead lights to provide a safer night environment for users and was equipped with flashing colored lights called "pace lights" that enabled users to pace themselves at various levels. The pace lights operated daily from 6:30 AM to 11:30 PM. Sixteen overhead lights activated by light sensors at dusk remained on until 11:30 PM daily. At 11:15 PM, 10 of the lights shut off to alert runners of the time, and four of the remaining six lights shut off at 11:30 PM. Two lights at the track's corners remained on for security.

The trail opened in mid-April with a dedication ceremony taking place on Tuesday afternoon, April 12, 1988 and included a demonstration of the track's lighting system. In addition to BGSU faculty, staff, and students and the the general public, the Pace Trail was used by physical education classes, area cross country teams, and people with health difficulties needing a paced exercise program.

References

Blandina, A. (1988, September 8). 'Pace Trail' is designed for safer jogging. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4826). p. 6. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/4826

Upton, R. (Photographer). (1988, April 15). [Newspaper photograph]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4793). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/4793

Wadley, J. (1988, April 21). New track offers safety. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 4797). pp. 2, 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/4797

The celebration was open to the entire campus community and was preceded by a week of festivities beginning on Monday, February 6. The week-long celebration included a series of daily articles in the BG News tracing the history, funding, changes, and future of the SRC; a memorabilia display in the center lobby area; a daily factual trivia contest; and a compilation of early and current SRC paraphernalia for deposit in a "time capsule" by the Student Employee Board.

The week ended with a brief ceremony at 3:00 PM, Friday, February 10th in the SRC main lobby where a commemorative plaque was unveiled. The plaque was a gift from SRC architect Thomas T. K. Zung that honored "All Past, Present and Future Students"...and specifically to honored members of the original SRC planning committee of 1975-79. An informal open house in the Hooley Conference Room followed the ceremony.

Dr. Terry Parsons, SRC director said it best in his letter inviting the SRC Council members, SRC staff, and SRC friends when he wrote "Thanks to you and to so many others the Center is not getting older, it is truly getting better."

Members of the 10th anniversary planning committee included Terry Parsons, Leslie Steinhaus, Jeff Purser, Shelli Francis, Michelle Myers, and Tammy Summers.

The following people were invited to the commemorative plaque unveiling:

Individuals Named on the Commemorative Plaque

• Dennis Bottonari

• David Crowl

• Sharon Deyling (Kearin)

• Nobby Emmanuel

• Dan Garfield

• Ann Shanklin (Gustasson)

• Barb Silver (Martin)

• Dennis Smith

• Michael Wilcox

• Richard Eakin

• Norman Rood

• Richard Brown (deceased), family members invited

• Rollie Engler

• Hollis Moore (deceased), Mrs. Marian Moore to be invited

• Thomas Zung

BGSU Representatives

• Paul Olscamp

• Phil Mason

• Mary Edmonds

• Bob Arrowsmith

• Dwight Burlingame

• Eloise Clark

• Robert Martin

• Jim Corbitt

• Chris Dalton

• Ron Russell

• Jack Gregory

Past SRCC Presidents

• Lee Esckilsen (1979-80)

• Kent Bevel (1980-81)

• Randy Reardon (1981-82)

• Sara Murnen (1983-84)

• Dan Schleub (1984-85)

• Margaret Behm (1985-86)

• Jeff Longwell (1986-87)

• Lynn Kirlough (1987-88)

• Michelle Myers (1988-89)

• Kraig Baker

• Brian Crowe

• Shelli Francis

• Juli Jenkins

• Lynn Kirlough

• Michelle Myers

• Mike Nye

• Leslie Steinhaus

• Jim Van Winkle

• Greg Wolff

• Joe Martini, administrative appointee

• Cheryl Sokoll, faculty appointee

• Jack Taylor, alumni appointee

Current SRC Staff

• Dick Bowers

• Jim Brotherton

• Kim Chandler

• Brian Gordon

• Dave Huther

• Greg Jordan

• Jodi Laubis

• Gary Layne

• Scott Levin

• Thad Long

• Lauren Mangili

• Barb Miller

• Clyde Milligan

• Diana Muenger

• Sue Nutty

• Chuck O'Brien

• Terry Parsons

• Mike Rossi

• Janet Rowe

• Cheryl Sokoll

• Tammy Summers

• Tom Stubbs

• Darrel Verney

• Don Young

• Ron Zwierlein

1979 SRC VIP Category

• Jean Campbell

• Chuck Codding

• Sue Hager

• Mark Kerns

• Elton Ringer

• Maury Sandy

• Warren Schooler

• Bernice Waggoner

• John White

Namesakes for SRC Facilities

• Iris Andrews

• Sam Cooper

• Agnes Hooley

All Current SRC Student Employees

References

Bowling Green State University. SRC tenth birthday - commemorative plaque unveiling. [Guest list]. Bowling Green, OH: BGSU Recreation and Wellness, Bowling Green, OH.

Parsons, T. (1988, September 15). [Letter to SRC Tenth Birthday Planning Committee]. Copy in possession of BGSU Recreation and Wellness.

Parsons, T. (1989, January 18). [Letter to SRC Council/SRC Staff/SRC Friends]. Copy in possession of BGSU Recreation and Wellness.

An Undergraduate Student Government (USG) poll of 162 students conducted in February 1990 revealed that 95 percent showed support for the new facility. The building had to be financed through Interest-bearing bonds and student fees financed over a 15 year period. However, the same USG poll showed that 94 percent showed support for the construction using general fees.

The primary purpose of the new 130,000 square-foot facility was to house intramurals and physical education classes. A major benefit of the fieldhouse was the ability to move intramurals indoors during inclement weather. Use of the building included physical education classes during the morning hours, varsity teams during the afternoon, and intramurals in the evening.

According to interim director of the fieldhouse Ron Zweirlein, part of the University's planning for the new facility included visits to similar facilities at other campuses. By examining the strengths and weaknesses of existing facilities, and Ron Zweirlein was quoted as saying "my area of expertise is in the design of facilities of this type and this is one of the nicest I have ever seen." Trustee Kevin Coughlin noted that the building was designed to house sporting activities, not spectators, and plans were not included for bleachers.

References

Dorksen, A. (1991, September 11). Falcon Fieldhouse to being in new era of BG athletics: Construction on facility to begin. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 5247). pp. 2, 5. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/5247

Dorksen, A. (1991, September 11). University looks to Kent State for field house model. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 5247). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/5247

Mighell, M. (1990, April 17). New building approved. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 5073). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/5073

Renovations included handball, racquetball, basketball, tennis, and indoor volleyball court refinishing as well as the addition of four new outdoor lighted basketball courts and a sand volleyball court. The department also purchased four new exercise bikes and several step masters. To better service students, the office counters were redone and computers were added. At the conclusion of the renovations, associate director of the Student Recreation Center, Dr. Ron Zwierlein, stated that "the center is now good––if not better from the day we opened." He added that "a number of people do not believe the center is 13 years old. They think its as new as the first day the key opened the door."

Funding for the renovations came from the auxiliary improvement projects budget which was a reserve maintenance account used to keep the Student Recreation Center in good condition. The renovations were completed during the summer in order to minimize student inconvenience.

Reference

Applebaum, A. (1991, August 26). Outdoor volleyball court added to Rec. The BG News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 5237). p. 8. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/5237

Rosepal, J. (1991, September 18). Rec center gets makeover. The BG News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 5252). pp. 17, 20. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/5252

In order to save on labor costs, the court was built by Ron Zwierlein, Associate Director of the Student Recreation Center, Student Recreation Center staff, and students. The total cost for the court was around $2,000 which came from the Student Recreation Center's outdoor budget.

The new sand volleyball court was located adjacent to the Student Recreation Center behind Andrews Pool, and it's use was restricted to BGSU students and SRC members. To minimize injury, it was built with a limestone base that was covered by astroturf matting. About 100 tons of sand was placed on top.

Reference

Applebaum, A. (1991, August 26). Outdoor volleyball court added to Rec. The BG News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 5237). p. 8. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/5237

Construction of the facility began in October 1991.

References

Dorksen, A. (1991, September 11). Falcon Fieldhouse to being in new era of BG athletics: Construction on facility to begin. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 5247). pp. 2, 5. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/5247

Dr. Zwierlein received his Bachelor's and Master's degrees from BGSU and his Doctor of Philosophy in 1980 from The Ohio State University. Prior to coming to coming to BGSU, Dr. Zwierlein served as director of Intercollegiate Athletics at St. Bonaventure University in New York.

During his career at BGSU, Dr. Zwierlein served as served as associate director of the Student Recreation Center from 1984 to 1991, director of the Perry Field House, senior associate vice president for Student Affairs, and head coach for the men's and women's swimming and diving programs, and adjunct faculty member for BGSU's School of Human Movement, Sport and Leisure Studies.

Dr. Zwierlein served as director of Recreational Sports until July 1994, when he was appointed as director of Intercollegiate Athletics.

References

Board of directors. [Web page]. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.bgsu.edu/alumni/about-us/board-of-directors.html

Bowling Green State University. SRC Timeline. [Timeline]. Bowling Green, OH: BGSU Recreation and Wellness.

Bowers named interim director of recreational sports. (1994, August 29). Monitor. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Faculty/Staff Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 336). p. 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/monitor/336

Previously, the intramural sports and sport clubs program were managed separately and housed in the School of Human Movement, Sport, and Leisure Studies in the College of Education and Human Development. Once moved to the Department of Rec Sports, Thad Long became Intramural Sports Club Director and coordinated both programs. Construction of the Perry Fieldhouse (previously named Falcon Fieldhouse) increased intramural options by centralizing the operations. In the 1993-94 academic year over 8,000 students participated in intramural sports.

The Department was formed to encompass the Intramural Sports and Sport Clubs programs, which were moved from the College of Health and Physical Education (HPE) (now HMSLS), as well as the Perry Field House, which was under construction.

Reference

Bowling Green State University. 1993 Award for Excellence in Masonry Design. [Plaque]. Bowling Green, OH: BGSU Recreation and Wellness.

The 130,000 square-foot building contains a six-lane, 200-meter track, three wooden basketball/volleyball courts, a textured court for tennis and various field event equipment, and a synthetic turf field measuring 100 yards. It was designed to be used primarily for intramural activities and physical education classes, but the facility was also available for most intercollegiate sports. Students, faculty, staff, and community members were initially provided access to the facility on the weekends.

When the fieldhouse opened in 1993, Mary Ann Roberton, director of the School of Health, Physical Education and Recreation (HPER) expressed her belief that "the new building will keep both students and professors happy." She commented that "what is great about the field house is that multiple courses can be held during the same time slot" and noted that "the instruction implications are absolutely tremendous."

According to Ron Zwierlein, director of Recreational Sports, the facility received high marks from varsity coaches. Ron Zwierlein also commented that the fieldhouse staff was "absolutely committed to serving the students and staff of BGSU during the first two years of [the fieldhouse's] existence" and added that their largest concerns were the workshops and intramurals that were to be held in the new facility.

DeChant, M. (1993, January 20). Fieldhouse now open, ready to serve students. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 5475). pp. 2, 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/5475

Mighell, M. (1990, April 17). New building approved. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 5073). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/5073

The club held tryouts led by members of the men’s club last year with Brett Hardtle as one of the main coaches of the team. After the club was formed, they held practices four nights a week. Despite a change in location and leadership, the team didn’t let that stop them from working hard. They were able to continue to better the team with the help from the University Bookstore and the Falcon House Sporting Goods.

On October 29, 1993, the club played as a team for the first time with Coach Ron Kalal and Lisa Gerrasch as co-captain. The team sent 13 players to Ohio University for a tournament where they managed a 2-4 record. They also traveled to Indiana University to compete in a seven-school tournament with co-captain Cathy Buynacek. Due to the many injuries in the fall, the team was only able to win seven in 23 games, but the team was beginning to look it had a bright future ahead of them. In the spring, the team had traveled to Miami University in Ohio to compete against Miami, Michigan and Ohio State University, where they managed a 3-5 record.

The following fall in 1994, the club has five returning but did see 22 new faces on the roster. The team had a successful year, with their only downfall being that they struggled to finish off teams when they’re in the lead, although they never lose by too many points. The next year the team was searching for a new head coach, but still had a bright future ahead of them.

In 2006, the Women’s Club Volleyball team shared equipment with the men’s club team while also paying $150 a year to help pay for the season. The team practiced in the Eppler building twice a week. Similar to other clubs, the team recruited women during Campus Fest, used flyers and other forms of communication, as well as attended intramural games to get the word out.

The national tournament was held in April at Salt Lake City in 2006, where Bowling Green came in ninth out of 60 teams, led by President Trish Young. Due to their success, the team was beginning to get more noticed. Joining the club volleyball team had allowed students to get more involved, from traveling for competitions to making friendships.

Volleyball was considered a strong choice for female athletes to participate in while in high school. The sport tends to be ranked only behind basketball and track and field with how many schools had these sports. So when these athletes started college, they were hoping to find something similar to participate in. This is where club volleyball came into play; it gave students an opportunity to join a volleyball team and compete while also being able to focus on school.

According to the team’s official page on OrgSync in 2017, the club president is Alex Sharkey and the club is geared towards undergraduate and graduate students. They compete in tournaments in the fall and spring with up to 12 members with typically two teams.

Reference

Wierschem, J. (5 November, 2013). A Spike In Popularity. Retrieved from http://www.sportsdestinations.com/sports/volleyball/spike-popularity-6877

[Women’s Club Volleyball]. (n.d.) Retrieved from https://orgsync.com/10223/chapter

BG club volleyball dream comes true for a local woman. (1993, October 21). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 5594). P. 7. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/5594/

Women’s club volleyball competes without coach. (1993. November 18). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 5614). P. 7. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/5614

Club volleyball opens play. (1993, November 4). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 5604). P. 7. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/5604

Club volleyball anxious to start. (1994, December 1). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 5778). P. 7. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/5778

Women’s club volleyball digs in. (1994, January 12). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 5629). P. 9. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/5629

Club volleyball plays in tourney. (1994, January 27). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 5639). P. 11. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/5639

Classifieds. (1995, October 13). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 5902). P. 10. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/5902

Club volleyball keeps competition alive. (2006, October 20). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 7661). P. 6-7. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/7661

Reference

Norman, T. (Photographer), & Haver, A. (Editor). (1994). [Yearbook photograph]. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 153). p. 209. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/153

Trustees name WBGU-TV building after the Tuckers and Field House room after Gregory. (1985, October 21). [Newsletter article]. Monitor Newsletter. Bowling Green State University. (Book 323). p.2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/monitor/323

Dr. Bowers was chosen to fill the vacancy left when previous director Dr. Ron Zwierlein became head of intercollegiate athletics. Dr. Edward Whipple, who announced the appointment, commented, "I was looking for a seasoned professional and an individual who is very tuned in to the issues confronting the field of recreational sports today." He also noted that Bowers had "an outstanding history with Bowling Green State University and has tremendous support from the current staff."

Dr. Bowers began teaching at the University in 1969, and was also the fitness director at the Student Recreation Center since 1986. In addition, he was the director of the Fitness and Sports Physiology Laboratory and director of graduate studies in health, physical education and recreation. Shortly after being identified as the interim Director in 1994, Dr. Bowers was named Director and Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs in January of 1995.

Dr. Bowers studied at The Ohio State University, where he received his bachelor's and master's degrees in education and a doctoral degree in physiology. Prior to joining BGSU, he was an assistant track coach and taught in the Department of Physical Education at Ohio State.

Reference

Bowers named interim director of recreational sports. (1994, August 29). Monitor. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Faculty/Staff Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 336). p. 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/monitor/336

As Falcon Hockey gained popularity across campus, women started showing interest in creating a women’s ice hockey team at Bowling Green State University.

The Women’s Ice Hockey Club was formed in 1994 by young women interested in hockey and Laura Leventhal, associate professor of computer science. It wasn’t easy launching this club sports team because people at this time thought women and hockey didn’t go together. The main purpose of forming this club team was to put a competitive and dedicated team together so others in the league would take them seriously.

The club team’s first home game in 1994 kicked off with a 7-0 win against Ohio State. In their second game, they won 3-0. In spirit of their successful first season, in April 1995, they hosted organizational meetings for women students interested in participating on the club team, in hopes to expand the team. Experience was not required. They ensured they would teach students how to play when they joined the women’s team.

During their first season, 1994-95, a majority of the team were beginners while only few had previous hockey experience. Due to their infancy, they mainly played against regional teams and a couple nearby university teams from Michigan and Ohio. Their most frequent rival was Ohio State University.

To begin the second 1995-96 season the next year, the club elected club officers and split into two teams: one for more skilled players and one for the novice. By the spring semester, they rejoiced into one team due to improvements and December graduates.

After their first two years, Coach Leventhal resigned and new USA Hockey certified coaches: Scott Adamick and Kris Wagner, took on the responsibility.

In the 1997-98 season, the Women’s Ice Hockey Club joined a Midwest league called the Central Collegiate Women’s Hockey Association (CCWHA). Bowling Green State University, The University of Illinois, Lake Forrest College, the University of Wisconsin, The University of Michigan, Western Michigan University, Michigan State University, and the Ohio State University made up this league. During this season, no one was ‘cut’ from the team and everyone was allowed on the team. In 1998, the club team left the CCWHA to compete at a lower, more attainable level. They rejoined the next season in 1999 alongside a new coach, Mike Duggan. The 1999-00 Women’s Ice Hockey Club had 23 players, 11 of whom had been with the team for over one year.

For the next 19 years, Women’s Ice Hockey Club was on and off. In November 2019, sophomore Ellen Padgett brought the club sport back to BGSU. After she found a coach, contacted the American Collegiate Hockey Association, and received nearly $3,000 from the BGSU Special Allocations Board, she set up a table at Campus Fest to recruit players. With enough girls signed to the team, they spent most of the year crowdsourcing and holding fundraisers for the following season. They raised $9,950, which was 248% of the goal, and held an exhibition game against Toledo Fire Hockey on March 7, 2019 that raised over $2000!

References

Binkley, M. (1997). [Yearbook article]. The Key 1997. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 156). pp. 30-31. https://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/156/.

Contributing reporter. (1994, December 12). Women’s hockey defeats Buckeyes. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 6784). pp. 19. https://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/.bg-news/6784

Hughes, C. (2019). Ellen Padgett Brings Women's Ice Hockey to BGSU. https://bgsuclubsports.com/news/2020/3/31/ellen-padgett-brings-womens-ice-hockey-to-bgsu.aspx. 

Peake, B. (1998). [Yearbook article]. The Key 1998. BGSU Key Yearbook. Bowling Green State University. (Book 157). pp. 156-157. https://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/157/.

Wendy Wellman. (1999, October 28). Icers have work cut out. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 6554). pp. 19. https://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/.bg-news/6554

Reference

Bowling Green State University. Athletic Business 1994 Facility of Merit. [Certificate]. Bowling Green, OH: BGSU Recreation and Wellness.

Bowling Green State University. Photograph of Athletic Business 1994 Facility of Merit award ceremony participants. [Photograph]. Bowling Green, OH: BGSU Recreation and Wellness.

The OhiOntario International Friendship Games were held from 1994 to 2001 to "demonstrate a community approach to international goodwill by promoting active living in the sister cities of St. Thomas, Ontario, and Bowling Green, Ohio."

Reference

Bowling Green State University. Spirit of the Games Award. [Plaque]. Bowling Green, OH: BGSU Recreation and Wellness.

MS 1177 - OhiOntario International Friendship Games Collection. [Web page]. (n.d.). BGSU Finding Aids. Center for Archival Collections. Bowling Green State University. Retrieved from https://lib.bgsu.edu/finding_aids/items/show/1427

The Dance Marathon was founded in 1991 in memory of Ryan White, and the event is now held annually at over 100 university campuses across the United States and Canada. The purpose of the BGSU Dance Marathon is to raise money and awareness for Mercy Children’s Hospital and to benefit Miracle Families through fundraising and the involvement of the campus and the community.

The first BGSU Dance Marathon was held in 1996, and participants raised more money than any other first-year dance marathon at the time. Up until 1996 the most raised at a single event was $31,000, but the BGSU Dance Marathon broke this record by raising $45,476. The Dance Marathon at the University also set the record as the largest student-run philanthropy in Ohio.

BGSU set another record in 1997 when it raised $102,958.17, which more than doubled the previous record set by Iowa City, Iowa for a second-year Dance Marathon.

The Dance Marathon continued to be held in the Student Recreation Center until it was closed for renovations in 2014. That year the event took place in the Perry Field House where it continued to be held in the years that followed.

References

2016 Dance Marathon at BGSU. (n.d.). [Website]. https://foundation.mercy.com/toledo/fundraisers/2016-bgsu-ziggython/

Barry, M. (1997, March 17). Dance away the weekend: Record amount raised at Dance Marathon. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 6149). pp. 2, 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/6149

Fleming, G. (Photographer). (1997, March 17). [Newspaper photograph]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 6149). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/6149

Pavelich, G. (1996, March 19). Dance Marathon volunteers raise $45,476. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 5990). p. 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/5990

Van Horn, A. (Photographer). (1997, March 17). [Newspaper photograph]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 6149). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/6149

Due to his enormous dedication and contributions to BGSU over the years the University decided to name the Falcon Fieldhouse after Charles E. Perry. During the dedication ceremony Ron Zwierlein said that "the strength of any building in its foundation is the support structure –– simply put, that is Chuck Perry."

Perry earned four degrees at BGSU and was a kicker for the football team from 1956-58. He went on to work in the University's admissions office and also held the positions of director of admissions, director of development, and assistant to the president under William Jerome. He also founded the Falcon Club which helps support the athletic program.

Reference

McCloskey, T. (1998, June 3). Field house officially dedicated to Charles Perry. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 6340). pp. 2, 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/6340

The BG News. (1999, September 3). [Newspaper photograph]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 6516). p. 9. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/6516

On January 22, 1999, the Student Recreation Center kicked off its 20th anniversary celebration with refreshments and music. The ceremony continued with speakers Mike Wilcox, one of the original SRC planners and Terry Parsons, former SRC director. Along with the speakers, a slide show and pictorial history of the building was presented.

Since the grand opening of the Student Recreation Center in 1979, various students and faculty used the facility frequently. 1,200 people would visit in a day. The center offered everything from basketball and swimming to fitness equipment and racquetball. To keep with the times, the SRC opened a weight room and offered more aerobic classes. Where it used to be a place of leisure, many lounges were transformed into fitness rooms. Even with all the improvements to the facility, the priority of the SRC was to provide students with the opportunity to exercise.

More so, the SRC was truly important for the University. Many student tours walked through the facility and were in awe. It is a place that has a little bit of everything for anyone. A majority of students used the facility because it was convenient while living or being on campus.

In the future, the SRC was looking toward establishing outdoor pursuits areas which included cross-country skiing, and whitewater rafting. The facility also wanted to build a climbing wall which was becoming a popular activity, in the early 2000s. Richard Bowers, former director of the SRC recreational sports stated “we have to challenge the SRC and bring ourselves up to speed with current settings”.

References:

Barhite, B. (1999, January 22). . Still Runnin' Rec Center soars into its 20th Anniversary. The BG News. Retrieved from https://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/7431

The county prosecutor’s office invited fourth and fifth graders from all schools in Wood County to participate in a day of different activities. The participants ranged from public, private, home-schooled, and online students. The purpose of the day was to emphasize the slogan: Competition without conflict, which helped reiterate to the participants the whole day was about having fun and meeting new people. Every year there were about 500 participants who teamed up with other students from different schools, which gave them a chance to make new friends. Aleah Logan, a fifth grade student from Perrysburg Woodland Elementary said, “I can be myself. And it’s not even about competition. It’s about having fun.” In the 2014 Youth Olympics, there were 150 volunteers to help make the event such a success.

Youth Olympics was a full day event, but was broken into two sessions. These two sessions consisted of dividing the students in the morning and afternoon. Each student received a t-shirt and lanyard with a nametag. The teams were broken up into 25 participants, and then five sub-teams within the group. Throughout the day the participants were involved in different events. Activities in the 2014 Youth Olympics included an introduction from speakers, obstacle courses, relay races, ball toss and other ball games, quizzes, and running and jumping competitions. At the end of each session, participants received awards and listened to another guest speaker to conclude the day.

References

(2011, March 17). Youth olympics. Sentinel-Tribune. pp. 1.

Dungjen, T. (2012, March 11). 4th, 5th graders learn teamwork at wood county youth olympics.

The Blade, pp. A1, A12.

Zam, A. (2014, March). Kids sign up for friendly competition: hundreds of fourth- and fifth

graders to compete in wood county youth olympics. Bowling Green Life, 7.

Dr. Bryan Cavins, the first assistant director of the Outdoor Program, was hired in 1999 by the Vice President of Student Affairs and the Department of Recreational Sports in order to develop a program that would give Bowling Green State University students a chance to experience the wilderness on a larger scale.

The Outdoor Program began as a volunteer-based student organization rather than a stand-alone program. When the Outdoor Program’s trips began gaining the interest of the student population, the department recognized the need to formalize the program. In 2000, the program officially made the move from a volunteer setup, to officially hiring student employees and requiring mandatory staff training. Along with the change in program status, the first graduate assistant, Ed Coombs, was also brought into the program.

Initially, the program hosted 5-10 trips a year. However, by 2001, the program hosted as many as 10 to 15 trips a year. The first trips led by the Outdoor Program included night hikes at Oak Openings, backpacking on the Appalachian Trail, overnight hiking trips in Hocking Hills, and indoor rock climbing/rappelling trips to Vertical Reality in Gilboa, OH.

Upon expansion and finalization of the program, the following mission statement was developed to clarify the Outdoor Program’s purpose at BGSU:

• Encourage student development through experiential education in outdoor settings

• Promote environmental stewardship and conservation

• Create opportunities for leadership advancement, team development, and personal growth

• Challenge students to expand beyond their personal boundaries and self-imposed limitations to broaden their understanding of themselves and the natural world

Reference

Bowling Green State University. History of the Outdoor Program: 1999 – Present. [Powerpoint presentation]. Bowling Green, OH: BGSU Recreation and Wellness.

The workshop provided students with a chance to experience kayaking and learn basic skills in a controlled environment. In reference to the workshop, course instructor Bob Hull stated, “kayaking is a great, fun sport if the correct safety steps are learned.”

In 2005, five sessions were offered, and by early 2006, the SRC offered workshops twice a year.

References

Bowling Green State University. Kayaking Workshop February 28, 2000. [Evaluation]. Bowling Green, OH BGSU Recreation and Wellness.

Bowling Green State University. Participant evaluation kayaking, spring 2001. [Evaluation]. Bowling Green, OH BGSU Recreation and Wellness.

Burch, J. (2001, April, 4). The BG News. [Newspaper caption]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 6791). p. 1. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/6791

Redmond, C. (2006, April, 4). The BG News. [Newspaper photograph]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 7587). p. 1. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/7587

What’s new at your Student Rec Center? (2005). The BG News. [Newspaper ad]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 7491). p. 2.

http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/7491

Assembled in the game room, the 1600 square foot wall was built to resemble a small mountain, reaching 34 feet at its highest point and 27 feet at its lowest peak. The wall catered to all levels of climbing expertise, and was available to both students and staff. Initially, the climbing wall was open 7 days a week from 3:30 PM to 10:30 PM, which allowed it to fulfill campus needs for late evening and night activities. According to Larry Spencer, associate director of the SRC, the new wall would provide the SRC with new programming opportunities, and he stated, “We put it up primarily to give us another programming option.”

The University spirit was in full stride at the event as BGSU mascots, Freddie and Frieda Falcon and members of Sic-Sic, BGSU’s spirit crew, showed up to celebrate. All who were present at this event were able to watch Freddie Falcon and two members of the Sic-Sic crew take a turn at climbing the wall.

The SRC offered both a two-hour belay and climbing certification courses at a cost of $15 prior to the wall’s opening. With these certifications, climbers were permitted to use the wall during hours of operation. Bryan Cavins, assistant director of Outdoor Program noted, “The certification process would involve a one to two hour class on rock climbing followed by a test, and the card would have to be renewed each semester.” At the start of the spring semester, 135 students had already signed up to take either the climbing or belay certification courses, and 83 students had already gone through one of the courses prior to the wall’s grand opening.

References

Gifford, C. (2001, November 20). Making the climb: U. adds climbing wall to SRC. The BG News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 6879). pp. 2, 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/6879

Gifford, C. (2002, January 24). Climbing wall debuts at SRC. The BG News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 6901). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/6901

Trevino, J. (Photographer). (2002, January 24). The BG News. [Newspaper photograph]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 6901). p. 2. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/6901

Tucker, E. (2009, October 8). Rockin’ the Rec. The BG News. [Newspaper article]. BGSUStudent Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book #8137). pp. 2, 3.http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/8137 

The Board of Trustees chose to name the intramural fields after Sandy because of "his vision, depth of commitment to and outstanding efforts in enhancing the co-curricular experience of BGSU students through building a premier co-educational intramural program with complementary playing facilities."

Reference

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 2002-05-10. (2002). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes. Bowling Green State University. (Paper 807). p. 29.

http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/807

The free workshops provided residents of Northwestern Ohio the opportunity to learn how to respect the environment and ‘leave no trace’ when camping or participating in other outdoor activities. Initially the Outdoor Program offered over 20 awareness workshops and was staffed with six Leave No Trace certified trainers.

References

Green Efforts. (n.d.). [Web page]. Retrieved from http://www.bgsu.edu/recwell/outdoor-program/green-efforts.html

Miller, A. J. (2004, February 11). Learn how to ‘leave no trace’. The BG News. Retrieved from http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/7234

As curling was gaining popularity at BGSU, interested players completed regionally and nationally. In 2005 there were two teams consisting of four players; Divisions 3 and 1 who competed before officially becoming a club. The Division 3 team included players Matt Cary, Matt Sussman, Luke Dubin and Nik Geller, who finished fourth at the College Curling National Tournament. A Division 1 team also competed at the Chicago Curling Club, and included Mike Moore, Jordan Atherine, Tom Moore, and Nick Young.

The Curling Club was officially founded and led by Nik Geller and started off strong in the 2006 season; with 1 team winning gold at their regional event and 2 teams placing second and third in Divisions 3 and 4 in their national event at other universities. During this time, the sport was becoming more popular due to the success of the U.S. men’s and women’s curling teams at the 2006 Torino Olympics. Although curling has been a part of the Winter Olympics for years, in 2006 the United States men’s team placed third resulting in a boost in mainstream media, allowing more people to become aware of Curling, causing the spike in popularity. Club curlers possessed this same enthusiasm and sought ways to learn more about the sport and its fundamentals.

The students turned to Associate Professor of Biological Science, Dr. Mike McKay, who had been regularly teaching Physical Education General curling classes since 1999 at the University. Bowling Green represented the Great Lakes Region, where McKay was the co-chairman of the regional tournament. This affiliation helped with the club’s long-term success because he had the contacts to encourage other colleges and university clubs to compete when BGSU hosted events. Luke Dubin, a Division 3 team member, got his start in curling from a Canadian Studies class which took a trip to the BGSU Ice Arena and learned how to play the sport, as well as attending open curling and enrolling in Dr. Mike McKay’s class.

A distinguishing factor for BGSU is that it was the only university as of 2007 to have a dedicated curling sheet, making it easier for them to schedule consistent practices. Players from other universities have said that Bowling Green is lucky to have a class that teaches curling, as well as a designated rink in the ice arena.

Sources:

A Day in the Life of a Curling Student. (2006, March 31). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 7585). P. 9. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/7585/

Curling club goes to Chicago for nationals. (2007, March 16). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 7734). P. 3.

http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/7734/

Ice Arena expands; new programs set. (1969, November 13). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 2387). P. 7, 12. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/2387/

BG’s club sports provide opportunity for athletes. (2007, July 18). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 7775). P. 5. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/7775/

BG curlers capture second place at nationals. (2005, March 23). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 7418). P. 8. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/7418/

More to ice than just hockey. (2005, April 7). [Newspaper article]. The B-G News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 7428). P. 9. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/7428/

“You’ve Come A Long Way, Baby.” (1974). [Yearbook article]. Kamber, K. A. (ed.). The Key 1974. Bowling Green State University. (Book 133). P. 176. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/yearbooks/133/

[Curling Men]. (2006). Retrieved from http://www.olympic.org/curling/curling-men

Dr. Kampf received his Bachelor of Science in Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance at Lock Haven University, his Masters in Sport Management at East Stroudsburg University, and his Ph.D. in Higher Education at the University of Buffalo.

Prior to accepting the position at Bowling Green State University, Dr. Kampf was the former director of Recreation and Wellness at SUNY Brockport and Kutztown University. In his former positions, he was used to smaller facilities and enrollment, and he knew it was time for a change when he decided to apply to Bowling Green State University. “I enjoyed that there was a larger staff and greater opportunities,” said Kampf. Along with his work in Recreation and Wellness, Dr. Kampf also served as the Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs.

One of Dr. Kampf’s greatest accomplishments at BGSU was the Student Recreation Center renovation project. “A thought turned into reality,” said Kampf. “We visited over 50 different institutions and it was a three to four year process.” He said his only worry during the project was current and future students thinking, “why did they do this?” Once the renovation was completed in 2014, Dr. Kampf saw the great amount of feedback received from members, which is when he knew the renovation was a success.

References

S. Kampf (personal communication, January 28, 2016)

Steve Kampf. Retrieved from https://www.bgsu.edu/recwell/contacts-and-staff/steve-kampf.html

Initially, sessions were priced at $75, and each session consisted of two hours of instruction over a six-week period at the Student Recreation Center climbing wall. Classes were split into two age groups: 8-12 and 13-18. During each session, climbers participated in a variety of games and lessons that were designed to be educational as well as active and fun.

Members of the Adrenaline Climbing Club came from all of the major schools in Bowling Green and also included youth from Findlay, Bloomdale, Portage, Pemberville, and Perrysburg, as well as homeschooled youth. A total of 26 climbers ranging from 8-16 years old participated in the program’s first session. As of May 2014, 282 participants had participated in the program’s 24 sessions.

In 2009, the Outdoor Program received $2,500 in grant funding from the Youth Enhancement and Support organization of Northwest Ohio (Y.E.S.). Roughly $1,500 of the grant was used to purchase new equipment for the adaptive climbing program. The remaining $1,000 was used to provide scholarships to families who could not afford to pay the fees for their youth to participate in the program. The Outdoor Program also donated an additional $265 from the program budget towards scholarships.

References

Bowling Green State University. A new adventure for Bowling Green youth. [PowerPoint presentation]. Bowling Green, OH: BGSU Recreation and Wellness.

Bowling Green State University. Adrenaline Climbing Club. [Brochure]. Bowling Green, OH: BGSU Recreation and Wellness.

Bowling Green State University. Thank you letter 2010. [Letter]. Bowling Green, OH: BGSU Recreation and Wellness.

Moving up in the world. (2010, November). Findlay Area Family. [News publication article]. p. 11

Designed as six and eight-week themed sessions for children ages 5-12 years, Kids Camp offered various activities that were created as learning tools for wellness. Some of the activities offered included library meetings, fire station visits, athletic facility time for sports, swimming, ice skating, outdoor activities, and arts and crafts. Dr. Steve Kampf, director of Recreation and Wellness, explained that all of the activities were meant to be fun, but also were used as a learning tool and aligned with the goal of promoting a healthy lifestyle and encouraging the children’s physical development.

Rec Sports professionals as well as graduate and undergraduate student employees led the sessions. Kids Camp was open to the public, and to encourage participation within the University, a discount was offered to all BGSU faculty and staff. When the program launched in 2007, approximately 15 children participated in the six-week program, and 30 children participated in the eight-week program. The program was later expanded to include Spring Break Kids Camp and School’s Out Kids Camp.

References

Kids Camp. (n.d.). [Web page]. Retrieved from http://www.bgsu.edu/recwell/youth-family/kids-camp programming.html

S. Kampf (personal communication, January 28, 2016)

Through the development of the SDL program, BGSU Recreation and Wellness became an early innovator within the National Intramural and Recreational Sports Association (NIRSA), the governing body of collegiate recreational sport. Lona Leck, assistant director of marketing and student employment explained that “the purpose of these events is to provide students with something greater than just the basic work experience. These events help educate students on different topics, to help make them more well-rounded in the workplace, as well as in their daily lives.” Participation contributes to the acquisition of a BGSU Leadership Certificate for qualified and enrolled students.

The Student Development and Leadership program provides training that includes a philosophical orientation of the field of leadership through a series of workshops. SDL workshops offer hands-on educational experience and prepare individuals for lifelong career development and personal growth. Participants develop an appreciation for engaged leadership while inspiring active and healthy lifestyles.

In order to promote student learning, all SDL sessions are grounded in theory. The anchors for theoretical support are Kouzes and Posner’s Five Practices of Exemplary Leadership, BGSU Pillars for Student Success, and BGSU's Core Values. Facilitators are mindful of these connections when creating programs.

Each year the programs are geared to meet Student Affairs Learning Outcomes as well as adhere to the core values set forth by the University. The programs cover a variety of topics including: an annual session on diversity, customer service/conflict management, interviewing skills, resume development, hot button topics, and student interests.

References

L. Leck (personal communication, January 2016)

Bowling Green State University.

Student Development and Leadership Program Spring 2016 Flyer [Flyer]. Bowling Green, OH: BGSU Recreation and Wellness.

Dr. Cooper, former coach and physical education administrator at BGSU, passed away on Friday, December 12, 2003 at the age of 89. He spent 29 years as a professor of physical education (1946-75), and retired as chairman of the Health and Physical Education department. Dr. Cooper was also served as head swimming coach, assistant cross-country and track coach, and was instrumental beginning the BGSU hockey program. In 1979, the Student Recreation Center swimming pool (Cooper Pool) was named in his honor. Dr. Cooper was also inducted into the BGSU Athletic Hall of Fame in 1975, and the Oberlin College Hall of Fame in 1989.

To honor his memory, a sculpture was created by Gail Slatter Folwell and unveiled during a dedication ceremony in 2008. Barry Walsh coordinated the event and was assisted by Dick Bowers, Tom Stubbs, Herb Scogg, and Paul Atkinson. A plaque that reads the following also accompanied the memorial sculpture.

“The sculpture, ‘The Swimmer,’ honors the exhilaration of sport, the passion for higher achievement and the fulfillment of success. It is gifted in memory and loving tribute to Dr. Sam Cooper: Coach, Teacher, Mentor, Leader, Innovator, Friend and Gentleman. He was an exemplary motivator to all who came under his tutelage. Sam Cooper made everyone feel that they were special. He is missed.”

Also listed on the plaques are the names of donors.

Reference

Bowling Green State University. Memorial plaque. [Plaque]. Bowling Green, OH: BGSU Recreation and Wellness.

Dr. Sam Cooper, former Bowling Green coach, passes away. (2003, December 15). Swimming World. Retrieved from https://www.swimmingworldmagazine.com/news/dr-sam-cooper-former-bowling-green-coach-passes-away/

Sam Cooper memorial dedication. (2008, September). Swimming and Diving Society News. Retrieved from http://falconalumni.bgsu.edu/alumni/news/pubs/swimmersfall08.pdf

The Freshman Wilderness Experience was created to give incoming freshman students an opportunity to form camaraderie while also learning from one another in an outdoor setting. This program gave students one UNIV 1000 credit.

The first trip took place at the Appalachian Trail. A crew of 21 students, with additional staff, including Bryan Cavins and Jerome Gabriel, completed backpacking to and from various points on the trail.

References

Bowling Green State University. Outdoor Program Powerpoint. [Powerpoint]. Bowling Green, OH: BGSU Recreation and Wellness

Reference

Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes 2008-10-03. (2008). [Meeting minutes]. Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes. Bowling Green State University. (Paper 839). p. 30. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bot/839

Irwin Belk. (2009). [Web page photograph]. Retrieved from http://bronzeking.com/Patrons/IrwinBelk.aspx

The Recreation and Wellness Student Employee Incentive Program is designed to recognize student employees who go above and beyond the job description to improve the department.

Full time staff, graduate assistants, and student supervisors award “Rec Bucks” to students who provide exemplary behavior. This includes areas of in crisis management, leadership, marketing and volunteer service. They are also awarded for customer service, training, meetings, special events, and shift coverage.

Rec Bucks are valued from $1, $2, $3, but the Golden Rec Buck is valued at $20. They can be redeemed for various prizes throughout the department, including Climbing Wall usage or semester Group Exercise passes. They can also be redeemed at the Rec-Fare-Well and Semester Send Off events. Prizes include BGSU gear, gift cards, various fitness items, and sometimes homemade items from RecWell departmental staff.

The Rec Bucks Incentive Program was presented at the 2013 joint conference between NIRSA and ACPA in Las Vegas, Nevada - Rec Bucks: Rewarding Students with More Than Just a Paycheck. Presenters included Enrico Hamilton, Graduate Assistant for Informal Recreation, Lindsay Helm, Student Supervisor for Student Recreation Center, and Lona Leck, Assistant Director. Also in 2013 the program was included in the ORSA conference and presented by Lona Leck and Kelsey Gabbard, Graduate Assistant for Student Programming.

The Rec Bucks Incentive Program allows students to work towards a goal, but also feel appreciated for their hard work.

References:

Student Employee Incentives. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.bgsu.edu/recwell/employment/student-employee-incentive-program.html

The Wellness Connection, which focuses on all aspects of student health, was originally housed in Student Health Services. The program paired up with Recreational Sports because according to Dr. Faith DeNardo, director of the Wellness Connection, the Department of Recreational Sports knew they had synergy. Recreational sports provided the physical aspects while the Wellness Connection brought health education and Wellness programs to the Department. “It seemed like a natural fit because both shared the same goals for students, faculty and staff; looking out for the health and well-being of people,” said Dr. DeNardo.

References

F. DeNardo (personal communication, January 20, 2016)

Wellness Connection. Retrieved from http://www.bgsu.edu/recwell/wellness-connection.html

WellAware encourages faculty and staff to lead a healthy lifestyle, and is promoted through campus efforts on wellness and health education, programs, and health screenings. It is funded by a Medical Mutual of Ohio grant, and was established in 2007. Dr. Faith Yingling, director of the Wellness Connection explained that “a proposal was written to Medical Mutual, and Medical Mutual of Ohio wanted to give that to the University to help promote faculty and staff wellness across the University.” Prior to joining the Department of Recreation and Wellness, WellAware was housed in the Office of Human Resources, and later moved to the Wellness Connection, which at the time was part of Student Health Services.

WellAware began as an incentive-based program. In 2009, Caitlin Spontelli, the interim health educator for the Wellness Connection said, “The program motivates the faculty and staff through various programs and prizes, such as Nintendo Wii, Wii Fit and Meijer gift cards.” By fall 2008, there were almost 300 faculty and staff participating in various WellAware programs. The incentive-based programs encouraged faculty and staff to try new things, raised awareness of health and wellness topics, and promoted healthy lifestyles around campus.

Events initially offered that made participants eligible for the Wii incentive prize were Weight Watchers at Work, Women’s Center Brown Bag Luncheon, Ergonomic workshops, WellAware Brownbag lunch, and Series Safety training. Other incentivized events hosted by WellAware included Walking to Wellness, an all-week walking program in the Perry Field House, and Know Your Numbers, a screening program that provided results for blood pressure, cholesterol, height, and weight. Over the years WellAware has continued to offer a variety of health and wellness programs and events including employee wellness yoga, the Sexual Assault Awareness 5K and Dog Walk, Eat Right for Life, Strive for Five Luncheon, Wellness Champions, the Poker Walk, and the Maintain Don’t Gain Holiday Challenge where faculty and staff would try to maintain or lose weight during the holiday season.

WellAware moved to Recreation and Wellness along with the Wellness Connection in the spring of 2009. Karyn Smith, health educator for the Wellness Connection, stated how the mission of WellAware and the mission of Recreation and Wellness aligned since both emphasized health opportunities and collaborative ways to support a healthy environment in all aspects of health. Through WellAware, faculty and staff at BGSU have had the opportunity to adapt to healthier lifestyles and have been able to express their feelings about wellness to others.

References

Fitzgibbons, C. (2009, February 5). Faculty and staff have chance to lose weight, win prizes. The

BG News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 8034). p. 4. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/8034

K. Smith (personal communication, February 3, 2016).

News and Events. (n.d.). [Webpage]. Retrieved from https://www.bgsu.edu/recwell/wellaware/news-and-events.html

WellAware. (n.d.). [Webpage]. Retrieved from http://www.bgsu.edu/recwell/wellaware.html

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM). The goal of SAAM is to raise public awareness about sexual violence and educate communities on how to prevent it. Beginning in 2009, the Wellness Connection has held an annual Sexual Assault Awareness Month 5K and Dog Walk to support the same goal as SAAM.

The first ever SAAM 5K and Dog Walk was hosted by the Student Wellness Network and Wellness Connection and occurred on Saturday, April 14, 2009. 42 people participated and received a t-shirt for their support of the cause. The 5K event was sponsored by the Student Wellness Network, Wellness Connection, Recreational Sports, Dining Services, Alcohol and Sexual Offense Coalition, Panhellenic Council, Wal-Mart, Meijer, and Kroger.

In 2010, the second annual SAAM 5K and Dog Walk event drew 82 participants and proceeds benefited The Cocoon, which provided safety, healing, and justice for survivors of Domestic and Sexual Violence. In 2013, the event raised money for the SAAFE Center in Wood County, which provided crisis intervention and emotional support for victims of sexual assault, stalking, sexual harassment and sex trafficking. The same year, the event attendance reached over 100 participants who gathered together at the Student Recreation Center in efforts to raise awareness.

For the next 7 years, the event grew in attendance and became a staple during April, the official sexual assault awareness month. Each 5K and Dog Walk brought participants from throughout the community to raise money for the Cocoon Shelter and offered giveaways for participating including water bottles, t-shirts, and dog bandanas. In recent years, the 5K event partnered with It’s On Us and the Center for Violence Prevention and Education to create a dialogue about sexual assault.

Due to the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, the SAAM 5K and Dog Walk was moved to a virtual setting. To adhere to social distancing, the community was encouraged to take their part in supporting SAAM by doing their own 5K and Dog Walk from home. Anytime within the month of April, participants were asked to share a photo or video on social media and caption it with a fact or statement relating to sexual violence.

References

Contributing reporter. (2009, April 1). SAAM 5k & Dog Walk Ad. [Newspaper advertisement]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 8067). pp. 7. https://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/.bg-news/8067

Kerner, C. (2010, April 19) Second annual 5k event gains runners, raises awareness. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 8241). pp. 1. https://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/.bg-news/8241

Contributing reporter. (2011, April 6). SAAM 5k & Dog Walk Ad. [Newspaper advertisement]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 8067). pp. 7. https://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/.bg-news/8067

Weber, S. (2013, April 22) Second annual 5k event gains runners, raises awareness. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 8630). pp. 1. https://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/.bg-news/8630

Recreation and Wellness Marketing and Student Programming Documents

After the department acquired the Wellness Connection in the spring 2009 semester, the staff recognized that the department name no longer reflected the breadth of programming offered to students and the community. Through the efforts of a small working group of staff, the department name, mission, and tagline were revised to encompass all program areas and learning outcomes.

Mission

The Department of Recreation and Wellness is a comprehensive program that:

• provides unique opportunities for recreation, wellness, and student development;

• promotes healthy lifestyles to the University and surrounding communities through personal and team challenges, hands-on educational experiences, and competitive activities;

• and aids in student recruitment and retention, and supports the University's core values and diversity initiatives to enhance the quality of life through the balance of work and play

Tagline

Inspiring Active and Healthy Lifestyles

Reference

Telling our story. (n.d.). [Web page]. http://www.bgsu.edu/recwell/telling-our-story.html

Named the “Bowling Green Bash,” the FMCA convention brought about 7,000 motor home enthusiasts and 2,600 recreational vehicles to the city and campus. During the event more than 160 technical and educational seminar opportunities covering almost all aspects of the motor home lifestyle were provided, as well as various activities ranging from crafts classes to exercise programs.

The convention also organized a trade show in the Perry Field House that featured over 400 exhibits for attendees to browse. Lona Leck, assistant director of the Perry Field House, stated that "the convention was a big endeavor for Bowling Green and BGSU. This was the most extensive event the Field House has ever hosted.” The planning for the trade show took two years to complete, and attesting to how busy the event was, Lona Leck noted that during the convention, “the staff seemed to be working 24 hours a day.”

References

Family Motor Coach Association is coming. (2009, July 13). [Webpage]. http://www2.bgsu.edu/offices/mc/monitor/07-13-09/page67641.html

FMCA’s 82nd International Convention: Bowling Green Bash. (2009). [Brochure]. Family Motor Coach Association.

Leck, L (personal communication, February 2016)

Motor coach families go back to school. (2009, July 27). [Webpage]. http://www2.bgsu.edu/offices/mc/monitor/07-27-09/page68459.html

Uhlenbrock, D. (July 2009). Bowling Green Convention Seminars [Webpage]. Retrieved from http://www.fmca.com/join-family-motor-coach-association/65-magazine/motor-home-articles/2613-bowling-green-convention-seminars.html

The David J. Webb Program Excellence Award, sponsored by Marmot, honors an outstanding non-profit outdoor programs, which have provided dynamic and innovative services to its participants, demonstrated professionalism and high standards of conduct, and contributed to the outdoor community at large by sharing information and assisting other programs. The award was created in 2002 and first given to Brigham Young University. Seven years later, Bowling Green State University had the privilege of being the 7th university in the nation to receive this award.

Jerome Gabriel, who had been the director of the Outdoor Program for two years, was notified about winning the award on Tuesday, November 3, 2009 through a phone call while playing disc golf. The following Saturday, November 7th, he officially received the award at a conference in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

During an interview with the BG News, Jerome Gabriel stated, “I was a little surprised that the University won the award because northwest Ohio is not located in an area of the country known for outdoor recreation.” Dr. Bryan Cavins, former director of the Outdoor Program, commented that the program would not be where it was without the student volunteers and help from administration over the years.

References

Talbert, C. (2009, November, 16). University program receives outdoor excellence award. The BG News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 8161). pp. 2 , 3. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/8161

The Outdoor Program was able to purchase roughly $1,500 in new adaptive climbing equipment for the program after receiving $2,500 in grant funding from the Youth Enhancement and Support organization of Northwest Ohio (Y.E.S.) in 2009. The new equipment included harnesses, pulleys, ropes, and a specialized adaptive ropes course harness for fully immobile, wheelchair bound youth. The equipment was debuted on October 3, 2009 during the Student Recreation Center 30th anniversary celebration.

Jerome noted that initially, it was challenging to sell the idea of an adaptive rocking climbing course to the special-needs community. However, after inviting county developmental disabilities administrators to campus for seminars on the program, they were able to convince their clients that it was a safe and fun activity.

Five Wood County Special Olympics athletes participated in the first adaptive rock climbing program in April 2010. In reference to the program, Mary Sehmann, coordinator of Wood Country Special Olympics, commented, “we’re going to make it one of our sports because the benefits are so great. It helps with upper-body strength, balance, problem-solving, decision-making, even communication.” Scott Mitchell, lead sports technician for Wood Lane was also impressed and stated, “it really helps their problem-solving skills, especially at the bottom where there are so many choices: Where do I put my hand? Where do I put my foot? You can see the wheels turning: Where do I go next? What do I need to do?”

Ms. Sehmann said that it was exciting to watch people who initially said they couldn’t do it after their first attempt, later reach the top of the wall. “Times are changing. People are trying more things,” she said. “This is a thrill sport, and people with disabilities want to do a thrill sport too.”

References

Bowling Green State University. Thank you letter 2010. [Letter]. Bowling Green, OH: BGSU Recreation and Wellness.

Feehan, J. (2010, April 28). Special athletes climb to new heights during BGSU program. The Toledo Blade, pp. B1, B3.

Recreation and Wellness (formerly Recreational Sports). (2008-09). [Online annual report].

STEM in the Park has been an annual program since 2010 hosted at the Perry Field House. As a free community event coordinated by the Northwest Ohio Center for Excellence, it attracts families from all over northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan. This program allows people of all ages to become involved and interested in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

In the fall of 2014, the event held over 110 exhibitions which included Imagination Station and the Toledo Zoo and Aquarium. Each year the activity stations grow and in 2018 there were 175 different activity stations, but all with the common goal of getting people engaged in STEM. Along with the activity stations, there is also catered lunch and transportation from Toledo, Lima and Sandusky Ohio schools.

STEM in the Park allows families to gain knowledge of science, technology, engineering and mathematics and showcases the BGSU community.

Resources:

Facts about NWO’S STEM in the Park at BGSU. (2015). Retrieved from www.bgsu.edu/content/dam/BGSU/COSMOS/Documents/SIP-fact-sheet-2015.pdf

Hess, M., Natzke, H., & Vu, M. (2018, October 01). STEM in the Park mixes fun with hands-on learning. Retrieved from https://www.bgfalconmedia.com/campus/stem-in-the-park-mixes-fun-with-hands-on-learning/article_fd605588-c514-11e8-9c54-87d17b411503.html

STEM in the Park. Retrieved from https://www.bgsu.edu/nwo/programs/stem-in-the-park.html

In the spring of 2012, the BGSU Recreation and Wellness Center hosted their first annual student employee recognition and awards. This banquet is to thank the Recreation and Wellness student employees and say a final farewell to the graduating seniors. The event features an overview of the department through the year and acknowledgments of student supervisors. Awards and recognitions are also given to various employees and graduating graduate assistants. A book scholarship and plaque go to the top graduate assistant and student supervisor. The Sue Hager and Dr. Ron Zwierlein awards are presented to undergraduate students who provide exemplary service and commitment to their jobs.

The Rec-Fare-Well is more than just an awards ceremony. The banquet is a catered event with food tables, raffle tickets, door prizes, games, and even silent auctions. In 2013 and 2014, the banquet included Rec Well Trivia. Various prizes and gift cards can be redeemed from Rec Bucks student employees earn during the year, when they are recognized for special tasks or excellent service.

Recreation and Wellness is committed to honoring their student employees by prioritizing this fun and interactive way to celebrate the school year.

References:

Recreation and Wellness Student Programming Documents

Coalition partners include individuals from law enforcement, local governments, schools, businesses, health departments, community organizations, and the Department of Recreation and Wellness.

Safe Communities serves Wood County by analyzing problem areas, educating citizens on proper safety, and promoting traffic safety and program goals through activities that include blitzes, fatal crash reviews, statistical analysis, and increasing traffic safety countermeasures. Some past programs provided by Safe Communities include Click It or Ticket (2014), Distracted Driving (2014), Mock O.V.I. Crash (2015), and an outreach at the Wood County Fair (2014-2015).

Reference

Traffic Safety. (n.d.). [Web page]. Retrieved from http://www.bgsu.edu/traffic-safety.html

When the Perry Field House opened in 1993, it included an indoor track, as well as an expansive turf room for recreational activities. The turf room originally consisted of an AstroTurf surface that was used for two decades. Upon renovation in the summer of 2013, the turf was replaced with Field Turf offering longer durability for the extensive use of the room. The massive surface cost $504,000 to renovate and is consistently used by various BGSU sport teams, rental groups, intramural players, and for open recreation.

Reference

Finnerty, H. (December 2015). Perry Field House track closed for renovations [webpage]. Retrieved from http://www.bgnews.com/campus/perry-field-house-track-closed-for-renovations/article_c02f10ac-a1fc-11e5-b6eb-23b9ae771a27.html#user-comment-area

Around 450 registered jugglers from around the world convened on BGSU’s campus to spend the week attending workshops, performing, and spending time with other jugglers in what festival participant Scott Sorensen called “the community.” The festival included activities for jugglers of all skill levels, and participants traveled from as far as Japan, Australia, Sweden, Germany, Puerto Rico, and Canada to attend.

The Perry Field House was open 24 hours a day during the week to accommodate the festival participants. Some of the week’s events included a late-night performance at Cla-Zel Theatre called “Club Renegade,” a parade through the city of Bowling Green, and a nighttime, fire-juggling event outside the Perry Field House. The festival’s main event was the Individuals and Teams Juggling Championships in which some of the world’s best jugglers competed.

References

Romaker, J. (2013, July, 16) 450 jugglers meet in Bolwing Green. The Blade. Retrieved from http://www.toledoblade.com/Culture/2013/07/17/450-jugglers-meet-in-Bowling-Green.html

International jugglers’ association. (n.d.). [Web banner photograph]. Retrieved from http://www.juggle.org

Smith, E. [Evan Smith]. (2013, July 26).IJA Bowling Green 2013. [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pRVhO4q2Zpg

Wicker, T. (2013, July 24). Juggling their way to fame. The BG News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 8645). pp. 2, 7. http://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/8645

Students were no longer satisfied with the 1979 Student Recreation Center, and the facility was not shown to prospective students during campus tours because of how it would have been compared to other university recreation facilities.

As a result, the Department of Recreation and Wellness determined that the facility needed to be renovated. The process was set in motion in October 2010 when the Department reached out to The Collaborative Inc., an architecture group in Toledo, Ohio to create a feasibility study.

The Board of Trustees approved the design and pre-construction plans in June of 2012, and on February 22, 2013, the Board approved the final design and construction plans. A budget of $13.4 million was also approved, which was later increased to about $14.8 million. The additional funds covered enhancements to the multi-activity court, a parking lot expansion, the addition of an outdoor volleyball court and patio area, expanded locker rooms, other design enhancements to the building as well as roof repairs, electrical updates, and upgrades to the HVAC system. $650,000 was also allocated to new weight/strength equipment and cardio machines. According to Dr. Steve Kampf, director of the Recreation and Wellness, the overall project ended up costing $17 million. Project funding was provided by a combination of future long-term debt issue, existing student general fee facility reserves, and from funds originally allocated to constructing the new Falcon Health Center.

Gilbane Building Company was hired as the general contractor, and construction began in August of 2013. During the next eight months the SRC remained open with limited operation. The facility was only closed to the public from April 13, 2014 until its completion in August. During this time, the weight/strength equipment and cardio machines were moved temporarily to the Perry Field House track room, and the group exercise fitness classes were also held in the Perry Field House.

The renovated Student Recreation Center featured many improvements demanded by students, faculty, and community members. The main focuses of the project were updated equipment, space, recruitment, and branding for the new facility. Highlights of the newly renovated Student Recreation Center project included:

• Complete refacing of the building entrance creating a modern look and feel and increasing the natural lighting

• Centralized entry point with an open concept taking advantage of natural light and LED fixtures purchased through partnerships with the Office of Campus Sustainability

• New central staircase leading directly to the balcony, main level, and locker rooms on lower level I

• Expanded main entry and balcony spaces with new flooring

• Purchase of new weight and cardio equipment totaling $650,000 in response to student/member feedback

• Increased air circulation with the installation of large scale Big Ass Fans® throughout the building

• Member validation, membership sales (including locker rentals and Group Exercise passes), and equipment checkout all take place at the new, centralized welcome desk

• Finger vein readers installed at the welcome desk to validate membership

• Complete renovation of the locker rooms with new lockers, saunas, and private locker rooms

• Water refill stations located throughout the facility

• Numerous TV's and various FourWinds monitors installed throughout the facility

• New furniture

• Lower Level I offices

• Multi-Activity Court (MAC) on activity court 4

• Running track

• Racquetball/squash courts

• New parking lot behind the building

• Exterior patio and sand volleyball court

The SRC reopened on August 24, 2014 with the number of attendees increasing over the course of the year from August 2014 to 2015. Attendance improved by 101% with 12,761 users in 2014 and 25,623 users in 2015.

A ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating the new facility was postponed until the Spring 2015 semester because the MAC court, patio and parking lot were not completed in time for the re-opening in August. Once the final renovations were completed, the facility was not only the first student funded, stand-alone recreation center in the country, but also the newest student recreation center in Ohio.

References

Bg24news. (2014, November 23). Rec Center Renovations. [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H_NtfvSmwrU

BGSURecreation. (2013, September 19). BGSU Rec Center Update. [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=21W30kya0Go

Furla, A. (August 22, 2014) Recreating recreation. The BG News. [Newspaper article]. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University (Book 8758). p. 8. http://www.scholarworks.bgsu.edu/bg-news/8758

Dupont, D. (2014, August 22). BGSU rec center gets into shape. Sentinel Tribune. Retrieved from http://www.sent-trib.com/news/bgsu-rec-center-gets-into-shape/article_b5abfd48-2a02-11e4-8ae2-001a4bcf887a.html

Mendyuk, B. (2013, April 30). Rec center space to be limited fall semester. The BG News. Retrieved from http://www.bgnews.com/

NBC 24 WNWO. (2014, August 21). Bowling Green State University renovates student recreation center. [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ysXxIsZu6BE

Renovation Project. (2015). [Webpage]. Retrieved from http://www.bgsu.edu/recwell/telling-our-story/history/renovation-project.html

In 1994, Bowling Green State University adopted a smoking policy, which prohibited smoking in all buildings owned or leased by the university. In 2009: American College Health Association released a position statement encouraging colleges and universities to adopt 100% tobacco-free policies. Three years later, 711 colleges and universities nationwide established a 100% smoke-free campus policy.

In 2012, the Ohio Board of Regents, with the support of then-Chancellor Jim Petro, advocated for the establishment of tobacco-free college and university campuses throughout Ohio. A committee comprised of BGSU faculty, staff, students, and Senior Associate Vice President and Dean of Students Jill Carr was established. This committee was responsible for conducting research and surveys that engaged constituent representatives in discussions about smoking and a smoke-free campus.

Survey results from the committee’s research in April 2012 include the following:

•43% of all students believe that BGSU should definitely be smoke-free, 17.6% believe BGSU should be smoke-free as long as the university increases support for cessation programs, and 39.5% do not believe the university should be smoke-free.

•If the decision was made to allow smoking on campus with restrictions, the majority of students would prefer a policy with designated smoking areas (65.8%) rather than a perimeter policy (34.2%).

•57% of students are frequently or occasionally bothered by smoke at BGSU.

oAmong students who are frequently or occasionally bothered by smoke at BGSU, 64.2% believe that BGSU should definitely be smoke-free, 17.3% believe BGSU should be smoke-free as long as the university increases support for cessation programs, and 18.6% do not believe the university should be smoke-free in spite of being bothered by smoke on campus.

After reviewing the results, the committee submitted the recommendation to move toward a smoke-free campus with smoking areas in designated parking lots throughout campus. The Board of Trustees approved this policy and BGSU joined many other universities in becoming a smoke-free campus.

On January 1, 2014, BGSU’s Clean Air Policy went into effect throughout the campus. This policy supported the university commitment to promoting a healthy environment and applied to all students, faculty, staff, visitors, contractors, volunteers, and service representatives. It prohibited smoking in all facilities owned or leased by BGSU and on the grounds of any property owned or leased by the university. The Clean Air Policy changed the social norm on the university campus, reduced health care costs, reduced campus clean-up costs, and eliminated rick of exposure to secondhand smoke.

Along with this policy, the Department of Recreation and Wellness launched an initiative called Falcon Fresh, to pass a tobacco-free policy at BGSU in an effort to promote the highest levels of health and well-being for all who work, live, and learn on campus. In 2019, a revised bill proposing a tobacco-free campus was brought to the Undergraduate Student Government to prohibit use of all tobacco products campus-wide that passed. A similar bill was proposed in February 2018 but failed during the final vote 9 to 11.

References:

Huffman, H. (2019, October 08). BGSU Undergraduate Student Government revisits tobacco-free campus policy. Retrieved December 15, 2020, from https://www.bgfalconmedia.com/campus/bgsu-undergraduate-student-government-revisits-tobacco-free-campus-policy/article_bf2638a2-e3f2-11e9-b795-4f9533eb37e5.html

King, D. (2013, August 26). University passes smoking ban. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 8649). pp. 1,9. https://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/.bg-news/8649

Weber, S. (2014, February 19). Clean air policy receives mixed response. [Newspaper article]. The BG News. BGSU Student Newspaper. Bowling Green State University. (Book 8714). pp. 1-2. https://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/.bg-news/8714

Recreation and Wellness Marketing and Student Programming Documents

The Coalition’s purpose is to create an inclusive culture both on and off campus by equipping students, faculty, and staff with the knowledge and skills necessary to recognize when another is in need and to respectfully intervene. Aspects of mental and social health addressed by the coalition include education, prevention, and outreach in the following areas: sexual violence, drug and alcohol abuse, suicide intervention, traffic safety, social justice, the clean air policy, and student support as they navigate collegiate experiences.

Initially, the Coalition consisted of a variety of individual grant-funded campaigns, each targeting a specific aspect of mental and social health. Start the Conversation, a suicide prevention campaign maintained by the Counseling Center and Recreation and Wellness, was the first to launch in the fall 2013 semester. Over the next two years, four additional campaigns were created through the efforts of various campus departments: Safe Communities, It’s On Us, Falcons Flock, and Generation Rx.

During the fall 2014 semester, the individual campaigns were united under the Community of Care Coalition.

Original Coalition Partners

• BGSU Counseling Center

• BGSU Wellness Connection

• Falcon Health

• BGSU Office of Equity and Diversity

• BGSU College of Health and Human Services

• BGSU Department of Media and Communications

• BGSU Residence Life

• Bowling Green Police Division

• BGSU Undergraduate Student Government

• BGSU Graduate Student Senate

• BGSU Center of Excellence: Health and Wellness Across the Lifespan

• BGSU Office of Multicultural Affairs

• BGSU Office of the Dean of Students

• BGSU Office of Non-Traditional and Transfer Student Services

• BGSU Fraternity and Sorority Life

• BGSU New Student Orientation

• BGSU ROTC

• Behavioral Connections of Wood County – SAAFE Center

• BGSU Start the Conversation

• Wood County Educational Services Center

• Wood County ADAMHS Board

• BGSU Women's Center

• BG Courts

• BGSU Public Safety

• BGSU Disability Services

• BGSU Office of Multicultural Affairs – LBGT Resource Center

References

Community of Care Coalition. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.bgsu.edu/community-of-care.html

F. DeNardo (personal communication, January 20, 2016)

University Business Magazine highlighted the "wow factor" of the newly renovated Student Recreation Center as well as the newly designed, welcoming front entrance. The judges also noted the increased accessibility to the upper and lower levels of the facility, which are important qualities for a recreation center.

References

Botelho, S. (2014, December). Recreation centers: Building campus recreation centers to meet evolving student expectation. [Online magazine article]. University Business, 12(17). Retrieved from https://www.universitybusiness.com/toc/24527

The event was managed collaboratively by Recreation and Wellness, Marketing and Communications, Student Affairs, and the Office of the President. BGSU faculty and staff, students, alumni, and other interested parties were invited to attend.

The ceremony took place on the Main Level in front of the new central staircase. The facility remained open during the event, and students and patrons were not prevented from working out in the surrounding areas.

The following dignitaries spoke during the event and participated in the ribbon cutting:

• Jill Carr – Vice President of Student Affairs

• Dr. Steve Kampf – Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs; Director of Recreation and Wellness

• Dr. Mary Ellen Mazey – University President

• Fran Voll – Board of Trustees Chair

• Mike Wilcox – Board of Trustees Former Chair; Member of the original SRC Planning Committee

• Kelsey Hammersmith – Recreation and Wellness Student Employee Board President

Additional ceremony attendees included Freddie and Frieda Falcon, BGSU cheerleaders, dance team members and Sic-Sic mascot, Spidey.

Dr. Steve Kampf opened the ceremony, followed by some words from Jill Carr. Referring to the need to promote health and wellness at the University, Jill Carr said, “We still have more to do; not to the facility, but to support healthy behavior.”

The enrollment for the fall semester 2015 was already up by six percent, and President Mazey attributed part of the increase to the renovations stating, “Part of the increase, I’m very sure, is about the Rec Center.”

During the event, Fran Voll stated, “BGSU has embarked on the largest building and renovation project in its’ history,” and remarked that the renovation would benefit thousands of students. He added that the day’s ceremony “clearly represented the support Board of Trustees gives to students.”

Mike Wilcox reflected on the impact of the nine students who came up with the idea of the recreation center in the 1970’s. “This Student Recreation Center started with nine students who had a vision to put a rec center together,” he said. “Selfishness changes lives. Nine students did it not for themselves, but for future students. I couldn’t be prouder of BG.”

Immediately following the ceremony, a dinner was held at the Alumni Center.

Planning Committee Members:

• Dr. Steve Kampf – Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs; Director of Recreation and Wellness

• Lona Leck – Assistant Director of Marketing and Student Employment, Recreation and Wellness

• Lisa Mattiace – Chief of Staff, Office of the President

• Deanna Vatan – Director, Office of the Division of Student Affairs

References

Clark, K. (2015, March 2). Ceremony marks finishing of rec center. The BG News. Retrieved from http://www.bgnews.com/campus/ceremony-marks-finishing-of-rec-center/article_0e77b60a-c09f-11e4-b932-4f05b2c8c381.html

Ribbon Cutting. (2015). Retrieved from http://www.bgsu.edu/recwell/telling-our-story/history/src-ribbon-cutting.html

FootGolf is played by kicking a regulation #5 soccer ball into oversized (21-inch diameter) holes in the fewest number of kicks; however, the same rules and scoring of golf apply to FootGolf.

An 18-hole FootGolf course was installed on the Forrest Creason Golf Course driving range, and was open to the public during designated FootGolf times. Members of the Undergraduate Student Government, along with Kurt Thomas, Golf Course director, and Dr. Steve Kampf, director of Recreation and Wellness, kicked off the FootGolf season with the first official game.

References

USFGA Frequently Asked Questions (n.d.). [Web page]. Retrieved from http://www.usfootgolf.org/faqs.html

About FootGolf. (n.d.). [Web page]. Retrieved from http://www.afgl.us/thesport.html

FootGolf. (n.d.). [Web page]. Retrieved from http://www.bgsu.edu/recwell/forrest-creason-golf-course/footgolf.html

The NIRSA Outstanding Sports Facilities Awards recognize the innovative designs of new, renovated, or expanded collegiate recreational facilities of NIRSA Member Institutions. Winning facilities exemplify the institution’s commitment to providing the higher education experience desired and valued by students. The SRC was one of 13 recreational facilities across the nation to receive the award in 2016.

The "BGSU Recreation and Wellness Through the Years" digital timeline, designed by Erica Pax, graduate student manager, placed 3rd in the student digital presentation category.

The timeline was created using the Tiki-Toki web-based software and features a diverse selection of photos, videos, and personal stories throughout the history of the department. It is part of a modern marketing plan that honors the past, and celebrates the future.

Lona Leck, assistant director of marketing and student employment, came up with the idea of developing the timeline prior to the 2013-14 Student Recreation Center renovation after uncovering several boxes in a storage room. Photographs of staff from the past, artifacts from anniversary celebrations, old t-shirts, complete photo albums, and other items including meeting minutes, event agendas, programs, and numerous documentation were uncovered. She decided that an interactive digital timeline would provide the best long-term location where stories about the history of the department could be cataloged for readers to enjoy for years to come, and in which new stories could continuously be added as new items and information are uncovered.

Erica conducted much research in creating this timeline. Each photo or artifact told a story, but additional work was necessary to uncover the complete story. Individuals shown in photograhs and referenced in various documents as well as long-term staff were contacted for interviews, and additional research was carried out at the BGSU Center for Archival Collections, the Wood County Courthouse, and online. She then compiled and synthesized the information to create each story, and included references for each source. Additionally, many photos were low quality or damaged from years of storage and were repaired in Photoshop.

Over time the focus of the project expanded to encompass the history of recreation at BGSU from its founding in 1910 to present day. The target audience includes current BGSU students, faculty and staff, and community members as well as BGSU alumni who are provided the opportunity to contribute to the ever growing history and remember their time at BGSU as employees or participants in recreation programming.

The project was launched in January 2016 as part of the RecWell Rewind campaign, and content is circulated weekly on social media, the RecWell blog, campus closed circuit television screens, and on RecWell homepage banners. The help of practicum students, Alexia Chesbrough and Brent Darah, has been critical to the success of the campaign.

The Recreation and Wellness website also received a 3rd place award in the website category.

The RecWell website was designed as the ultimate source of information about the department including programs, events, schedules, policies, and facilities for BGSU students, faculty and staff, and community members. It was completely overhauled during the 2014-15 academic year during the transition from the Rhythmyx content management system to the Adobe AEM content management system. Project goals included improving the website's appearance, branding, and ease of navigation as well as to create a site that was memorable, beautiful, and useful to all audiences.

Contributors to the project included the following RecWell staff and student employees:

• Lead Developer: Lona Leck, assistant director of marketing and student employment

• Developer and Photographer: Erica Pax, graduate student manager

• Developer: Lindsay Harmon, marketing associate

• Developer: Joel Hartman, marketing assistant

• Developer: Brooke Martin, marketing assistant

• Developer: Mike Gragg, marketing assistant

• Content Administrator: Malissa Davis, secretary

The BGSU Recreation and Wellness digital timeline was developed to demonstrate that recreational sports programs and activities are intertwined in the history of higher education. The presentation, titled “Telling the Recreational Sports Story and Building Community Through Digital Timelines,” showcased the RecWell digital timeline which displays over 100 years of “the memories” of students, faculty, staff, and community members. By reviewing a diverse selection of photos, videos, and personal stories, the presenters demonstrated how the timeline was integrated into a modern marketing plan. Through the presentation, the NIRSA core competency of business management was featured as a marketing public relations and technology topic with the following learning objectives:

1. Learn how to integrate findings from archival research into a marketing plan.

2. Learn to build relationships with campus and community partners that result in deeper connections to current programming, improved alumni relations, and an increase in donations to the department.

3. Develop skills using digital timelines to create and deliver impactful, online, custom presentations that tell a story.

At the start of the presentation, the presenters and attendees gathered for a group portrait to commemorate the event in a timeline story.

During the presentation Lona and Erica discussed the following topics:

• archival research

• common accessible sources

• importance of referencing sources

• benefits of archival research to campus recreation

• campus partnerships developed through archival research

• how to integrate archival research into a marketing plan

• benefits and limitations of digital timelines

Erica ended the presentation with a step-by-step demonstration of how to build an entry in the timeline. She created a story about the presentation and included the group portrait taken at the beginning of the session.

NIRSA members who attended the presentation included but were not limited to:

• Doug Curry, Miami University

• Jennifer DeWitt, Loma Linda University

• Alicia Fodera, American University

• Elena Garza, Technologico de Monterey

• Rebecca Goening, University of Kansas

• Matt Grimm, Stevenson University

• Lindsay Helm, University of Dayton

• Matthew Jones, Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis

• Edwin Jones, Loma Linda University

• Jessica Konetski, Texas A&M University

• Barry Miller, Radford University

• Erin O’Sullivan, NIRSA

• Donna Owen, Clemson University

• John Porter, US Navy

• Kathryn Price, Texas State University

• Katrina Sampson, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

• Mary Yemma, North Carolina State University

• Toby Uecker, South Dakota State University

• Barrett Ann Ward, Sacramento State

• Ryan Wong, University of Houston

• Alyssa Whitney, Oregon State University

A special thanks goes out to Cory Granholm, NIRSA Creative Director for technology support and providing the NIRSA banner.

Inspired by the book SPARK: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain, by John J. Ratey, MD., Recreation and Wellness partnered with the Division of Student Affairs to launch an innovative initiative called Move for Your Mood. The tenants of SPARK and other researchers showed that physical health benefits of exercise played an important role in mental acuity, mental health, and cognitive function with physical activity. This initiative’s mission statement relied upon the fact that it takes just 30 minutes (2% of your day) to see these benefits.

In collaboration with office, departments, and student organizations on campus, Move for Your Mood began offering free movement sessions to students, faculty, and staff in August 2018. Recreation and Wellness promoted Move for Your Mood with the 2% logo and the hashtag #Move4YourMood. Incentives were also given to participants and no experience was required. Funding provided fully or in part by the Ohio College Health Association.

Move for Your Mood showed great success and inspired well-being throughout BGSU’s campus and community. Within its first year, 1940 participants, 800 unique students, faculty and staff members attended the free movement sessions. Specific reported benefits reported by those who participated in the #Move4YourMood sessions included:

- Sessions were beneficial: 98%

- Improved mood: 71%

- Felt more productive after attending a session: 52%

- Sessions helped me relax: 66%

- Sessions helped me feel more energized: 50%

- Sessions helped me enhance my emotional well-being: 46%

- Sessions helped me improve my ability to cope with stress: 43%

- I have increased my psychical activity level: 40%

References:

Recreation and Wellness Marketing and Student Programming Documents.

Ratey, J. J. (2008). SPARK: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain. New York City, NY: Little, Brown and Company.

In 2019 The BGSU Make a Splash program was one out of the 85 programs chosen to receive funding support from the USA Swimming Foundation. The Assistant Director for Aquatics and Youth and Family at Bowling Green State University, Chris Ballard, Assistant Director, Recreation and Wellness, submitted a grant proposal to Make A Splash Grant through USA Swimming. The grant outlined the importance of the Make a Splash program in the Bowling Green area. Chris Ballard stated his goal was to “target underprivileged children who are not currently in lessons and offer them free swim lessons provided by our certified instructors”.

The Make a Splash program at BSGU offered swim lessons designed for varying ages and skill levels. The program focused on fundamental techniques and safety for swimming. Fully trained American Red Cross Water Safety Instructors guided participants through different activities that are dependent on age and skill level. The skills learned throughout the program can potentially be lifesaving and are skills that last a lifetime.

A total of $4,950 was donated by The USA Swimming Foundation to the Bowling Green Make a Splash program. From these funds, Recreation and Wellness was proud to provide swim lessons to youth who had never received them before. “We ended up giving lessons to 62 kids for free, and provided more than half of those children with goggles”, stated Chris.

The USA Swimming Foundation hopes to provide opportunities for every child in America to learn how to swim. These local grants provide education on learning how to swim for families and their children.

References:

ARAHE (February 24,2010). Make a Splash with Recwell’s Learn to Swim [webpage]. Retrieved from https://blogs.bgsu.edu/recwell/2010/02/24/make-a-splash-with-recwell’s-learn-to-swim/

Chris Ballard. 2019 USA Swimming Foundation Grant Proposal, 2019.

Dupont, David (April 8, 2019). BGSU hopes to Make a Splash with a national grant to fund swim lessons [webpage]. Retrieved from https://bgindependentmedia.org/bgsu-hopes-to-make-a-splash-with-national-grant-to-fund-swim-lessons/

To begin the 2019 school year, BGSU Recreation and Wellness launched THRIVE, a campus-wide comprehensive well-being initiative. Based on the American College Health Association and Council of Advancement of Standings in Higher Education, THRIVE was designed to empower well-being and help foster the development of necessary life skills to succeed at BGSU and beyond. With a $8,500 grant from the Division of Student Affairs, THRIVE began providing the fundamental life skills, resources, and support by promoting the integration of the 8 dimensions of wellbeing: Physical, Social, Environmental, Intellectual, Emotional, Spiritual, Occupational, Financial.

The primary goals of THRIVE included: increasing mental health awareness and promoting resources; building healthy self-care habits and life skills; and fostering a supportive inclusive community. To achieve these goals this campus-wide initiative offered several components:

1. Educational sessions – Free, peer led interactives designed to discover how to cope with stressors and develop healthy self-care habits and life skills. Topics include mindfulness, stress survival, healthy relationships, frit and resilience, healthy coping, nutrition, exercise is medicine, Be the Creed: Alcohol and other Drugs.

2. Becoming a Focused Falcon: 4-week workshops focusing on strengthening attention, and increasing memory motivated by the book ‘The Mindful Twenty-Something,’ by Holly B. Rodgers, MD.

3. Mindful Moments – Space and time to drop-in to a quiet and relaxing environment

4. Move For Your Mood (#MOVE4YOURMOOD) – Free, low-impact movement sessions offered at locations throughout campus that demonstrate the positive feelings derived from movement. Inspired by the book SPARK: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain, by John J. Ratey, MD.

5. Self-Care Nights – Designed to provide knowledge and awareness of healthy self-care habits. Facilitated activities relaxation, self-care, gentle massages, yoga and other activities.

As a campus-wide initiative, THRIVE partnered with Recreation and Wellness Programming (Group Exercise, Intramural Sports, Club Sports, Outdoor Programs, Open Recreation, Aquatics, Youth and Family, and Wellness Connection), the Career Center, Campus Sustainability, University Police Division, the Counseling Center, PNC Bank Financial Literacy, Impact Solutions Employee Assistance Programs (Faculty/Staff), Dining Services, Wood County Hospital, Physician Referred Exercise Program, Exercise is Medicine, College of Health and Human Services Intergenerational Workshops, Peer Education, and BGSU Care Coalition.

References:

Recreation and Wellness Marketing and Student Programming Documents

Rodgers, H. B. (2016). The Mindful Something. Durham, NC: New Harbinger Publications.

Abrams, G. B., Andes, S., DeRicco, B., Rider-Milkovich, H., & Wilcox, D. (2019). CAS cross-functional framework for advancing health and well-being. P. J. Carretta (Ed.). Washington, D. C.: Council for the Advancement of Standards for Higher Education.

American College Health Association. (2018). American College Health Association-National College Health Assessment II: Reference group executive summary spring 2018. Silver Spring, MD: American College Health Association.

THRIVE Introduction Video. (2019, September 9). An introduction to THRIVE narrated and edited by Pablo Gomez-Estevez [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.instagram.com/p/B2MsJQ4FMXs/.

THRIVE Social Dimension Video. (2019, September 11). An introduction to THRIVE starring Dominque Buchanan and edited by Pablo Gomez-Estevez [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.instagram.com/p/B2Rs8XXl14d/.

Fast forward to July 27, and the SRC was ready to reopen. Dave Hollinger, Director of the Student Recreation Center, explains that, “Given all of the new COVID guidelines specific to fitness facilities, it was challenging to prepare for a reopening. We had to rethink all of our operations and much time was invested in developing traffic flow, developing policy, creating and posting signage/videos, altering equipment placement to promote physical distancing and developing new cleaning expectations for both staff and patrons. That said, providing an opportunity for BGSU students and members to remain physically active was a priority, so our RecWell team embraced the challenge and did whatever was necessary to provide a safe environment for our users”. With direction from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the State of Ohio and Ohio Department of Health, and the Wood County Health Department, a multi-phased reopening plan was implemented to allow the community to “stay well together”, terms used in the communication strategy aimed to encourage adherence to policies and the health and safety of BGSU students, faculty, staff and community members using the facility.

The multi-phased reopening plan at the Recreation and Wellness Center Facility included developing capacity limits, equipment spacing, cleaning protocols, good health practices, and additional policies to provide the safest environment possible. Capacity limits were set in all areas of the SRC along with spacing of equipment to promote physical distancing - keeping a safe distance from individuals in different households (6-feet minimum) in order to reduce the likelihood of spreading of viruses. Live facility counts were made available online and through the BGSU app to provide patrons with continuously updated usage levels and notice of closed areas before they entered the facility. Areas within the Recreation Center were also frequently sanitized and regularly deep cleaned by Recreation and Wellness staff and BGSU Campus Operations. A temperature checking station at the front desk and hand sanitizing stations throughout the facility were also installed. Face coverings were also required at all times including while exercising to prevent respiratory droplets from reaching others.

Throughout the course of the shutdown period, many Recreation and Wellness programs continued in a virtual environment. These included Kids Camp parent and child activities, Group Fitness Classes and #Move4YourMood, Older Adult Fitness classes, a well-being challenge, a book club, and intramurals incorporating online gaming.

Reopening video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_oZmtKKoMe0

References:

Campbell, F. (March 16, 2020). DeWine announces closures of gyms, fitness centers and movie theaters. ABC 6. Retrieved from https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/dewine-announces- closures-of-gyms-fitness-centers-and-movie-theaters

Coronavirus Disease 2019. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus

Hollinger, D. (December 10, 2020). Interview.

On May 15, 2020, BGSU announced a restructuring across campus that included changes to Intercollegiate Athletics. The University projected a shortfall of approximately $29 million due to operating difficulties following the COVID-19 pandemic in the beginning of the year. As part of a plan for a $2 million reduction to the operating budget of the Intercollegiate Athletics Department, the University integrated the Department of Recreation and Wellness into Athletics.

Following this decision, Bob Moosbrugger assumed the expanded role as Director of Intercollegiate Athletics, Recreation and Wellness. This role took responsibility for overseeing all athletic facility operations including the Perry Field House and Student Recreation Center as well as Recreation and Wellness programs.

References

Knavel, J. (2020, May 15). BGSU Announces Athletics Restructuring. [Press release]. Bowling Green State University Department of Athletics. Bowling Green State University. https://bgsufalcons.com/news/2020/5/15/general-bgsu-announces-athletics-restructuring.aspx

In response to the global coronavirus pandemic, universities across the U.S. implemented creative approaches to safely get students and faculty involved across campus. Many universities opted to go virtual for classes, club meetings, and even sports during the Fall 2020 semester. BGSU Intramural Sports transitioned their usual sporting events into free “E-sports,” (video games competitions) in which students played games such as Madden, FIFA, Rocket League, and Call of Duty. Other schools who switched to virtual Intramural Sports during the coronavirus pandemic included Ohio State University, University of Toledo, Kent State University, The University of Akron, and many more.

Winners for the first Virtual Intramural Programming Include:

Call of Duty Search and Destroy - Lambda Chi Alpha Purple

Call of Duty Warzone - Pi Kappa Alpha 1

Madden PS4 - Nashid Bracy; Assistant director of Perry Field House and Intramural and Sports Clubs

Madden Xbox One - Carter Clark

NBA 2k21 Xbox One - Chase Weiss; majored in Sport Management

FIFA 20 Xbox One - Cameron Salco 

NHL 20 Xbox One - Joseph Johnson

Rocket League - Dorito Eaters

References:

Coronavirus Disease 2019. (n.d.). Retrieved November 04, 2020, from https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus

IMLeagues. (n.d.). Retrieved November 04, 2020, from http://www.imleagues.com/