After 17 years of athletic success, construction began on the NDA turf and track on May 1.
This year’s “Capital Campaign” fundraiser included multiple physical updates for the school, and among those updates was the turf and track.
A goal of 10 million dollars was set for the campaign, 9.2 million of which has been raised.
With the money, there are plans to improve classrooms, labs and other parts of the building. Additionally, some money will go to renovate not only the turf and track but also the tennis courts and other athletic training facilities.
The current turf, installed in 2008, is now worn down, and there are holes in the track. The tennis courts and training facilities are also far behind modern standards.
Strength and Conditioning coach AJ Giovanetti explained, “It’s no secret that our athletic facilities are falling behind the times. It’s nice that our community is recognizing that and starting to do something about it. Our school’s mission mentions ‘educating the whole person’ and athletics plays a huge role in that with life lessons that extend beyond the classroom.”
So many people have been involved with athletics and activities at NDA’s athletic facilities. Indeed, 513 students out of the 712 at Notre Dame were involved in athletics this year.
Not only do the athletes use the turf for games, but other athletes and students participate through training, gym classes and athletic camps–not to mention the fans who have experienced the many successes and championships.
During the 17 years with this turf, there have been seven team state championships, 23 individual/relay championships, nine runner-up finishes, and many more regional and sectional champions.
“Our athletes put a lot of time into their sports, and I’m excited that we will have a few new athletic facilities that match their efforts,” added Giovanetti.
Veteran English teacher Carolyn Brown continued, “I’m excited about the upgrades due to the capital campaign, but it’s much more than just track and field and tennis court improvements. The new athletic center is going to be amazing. A lot of the money is going into scholarships, too.”
Looking back 17 years ago, Brown recalls the experience from the last replacement.
“I remember when we first got the artificial turf, how fascinated everyone was with the little balls in it, the minuscule pieces. It was like big-time, really something special to have it,” she said.
The best part about the turf is all of the memories that were made.
“In the winter of 2024, we had unseasonably warm weather in February, so the football players wanted to do their 6:30 a.m. run outside on the turf under the lights. It was fun to do something different and be outside in the middle of February and training under the lights, and the guys brought great energy to the workout. Also, from a sports perspective, not one moment in particular, but just playoff games in general. The playoff atmosphere is just different, and it’s even more special when you’re at home. The stakes are high as it’s win and move on or lose and your season is over. That makes for a great environment,” highlighted Giovanetti.
Brown also shared her favorite memory. “The most nostalgic and beautiful memory is the seniors’ last walk on the field. That never gets old,” she said.
Since construction began, NDA teams have had to adjust. Work will continue to be done throughout the summer in hopes of having the facilities ready for the start of school in the fall.
NDA gym teacher Chris Nowak also added, “I just remember how excited everyone was when we first installed the turf 17 years ago, and I am looking forward to the next group of students to make their own memories on the new turf, track, and tennis courts.”
