Next phase of Rider’s athletic campaign underway

The next phase of a multi-phased project to enhance and expand historic Alumni Gymnasium will break ground this summer.

This next phase includes construction of an 8,400 square foot basketball practice facility to be located behind Alumni Gymnasium, the oldest building on Rider’s Lawrenceville campus. Construction is expected to be completed in spring 2016.

The new phase was announced on Saturday, June 13, at Rider University’s Reunions.

The first phase of the multi-phased project, completed two years ago, included the addition of a state-of-the-art HD video board; modern heating, air conditioning and lighting; new flooring; a new sound system and branding initiatives.

“The completion of the first phase gave Alumni Gym a much-needed updated look and feel,” said Rider Director of Athletics Don Harnum.

The next phase of the campaign is the addition of an 8,400 square foot basketball practice facility.

“It is exciting to be able to announce the success of the next phase of the Alumni Gym Campaign and break ground on a basketball practice facility,” Harnum said. 

The Alumni Gym Campaign is funded entirely through the generous support of private donations. “I’d like to thank our campaign leadership team and all our donors who have supported this important project,” Harnum said. “It will dramatically enhance the daily lives of our student-athletes and coaches, bolster recruiting and afford us greater scheduling flexibility for basketball, volleyball and wrestling which compete in Alumni Gym.”

“This new facility means a great deal,” said Rider Men’s Basketball Head Coach Kevin Baggett, the 2015 MAAC Coach of the Year.  “The addition of a practice facility is unique for a mid-major school,” Baggett said. “It will be a great recruiting tool and will enhance player development.”

"The new practice facility will be a terrific addition to Rider basketball,” said Rider Women’s Head Basketball Coach, Lynn Milligan. “It will not only enhance the overall experience for our student-athletes but also advance our day-to-day operations and recruitment of future Broncs.  We are excited about this project and are appreciative to our donors, the administration and Don Harnum who have worked tirelessly to make this a reality for us."

Future phases of the Alumni Gym Campaign will include expanded seating capacity with additional premium seats, enhanced fan amenities, renovated locker rooms and office space and a strength and conditioning center.  

For more information on the campaign, please visit www.rider.edu/athleticscampaign.