Photo taken by Jake Seo
In mid-June of 2024, the main courts of the Recreation and Wellness Center were shut down due to new construction efforts underway “for maintenance and repairs to mechanical equipment and the roof of the main gym of the facility,” as stated from Vanderbilt’s official news. Currently, the auxiliary court upstairs and the main fitness area with gym equipment are the only places at the Recreation center open for student use.
Many returning students were disappointed to find out the beloved main gymnasium at the rec had been closed for construction, as many had used the area to play various sports, including basketball, pickleball, badminton, and more.
“One of the main reasons I chose to live at Highlands this year was because of the courts where I played basketball. Now with the construction, I rarely get to play as the auxiliary gym is almost always full.”
Tay Kim, Vanderbilt sophomore
As a current sophomore myself, I used to go to the main gymnasium frequently to enjoy playing sports with my friends after working out at the gym, as a fun alternative for cardio compared to running on the treadmill or biking. With this option gone, it’s difficult to find fun things to do with my friends to burn a few extra calories. Like Tay, the construction has been frustrating, disrupting the set routine I had created in my freshman year. Passing by the closed white doors of the main courts of the gym, I am only reminded of the many students that used the space to meet new peers, especially in freshman year, and destress.
Although the Rec is an amazing place to get daily physical activity in, I have found that there are many other venues on campus that offer similar benefits for students looking to stay active and engaged.
One option is to join a club sport, with a wide variety to choose from, including popular sports like soccer, hockey, basketball, and more, where they play against other schools and hold practices. Dance clubs like VIVID and Confidance are also options that exist on campus, offering a place to learn choreography to your favorite pop songs, all while moving your body to stay healthy.
The temporary closure of the David Williams II Recreation and Wellness Center has caused much disruption in students’ routines and social activities. This situation, however, presents an opportunity for students to explore different clubs and organizations that offers an mirror of what the Rec used to offer, whether it’s joining a club sport, participating in dance groups, or utilizing outdoor spaces on campus.
