The University of South Dakota in Vermillion is holding a grand opening ceremony later this month for its Wellness Center Natatorium.
The university says the aquatic facility adds about 45,800 gross square feet to the existing Wellness Center. It will enable the university to host everything from public swimming classes to large swimming competitions.
The natatorium houses an Olympic-sized competition pool, activity pool, a Ninja Cross™ aquatic obstacle course, multipurpose room, hot tub, steam room, athletic locker rooms, expanded wellness locker rooms, meet management room, coaches’ offices and lifeguard room.
In addition to serving the campus community and the public, the natatorium will be home to the university’s swimming and diving program. With seating for 400, fans will have a better viewing experience for swimming and diving events.
The university says the natatorium is designed to serve both the campus community and the Vermillion community at large; the facilities can host everything from public swim classes to large swim competitions.
The 50-meter competition pool will feature two movable bulkheads, which enable the pool to be divided into three separate zones so that three unique activities can take place simultaneously.
Another feature of the expansion is a NinjaCross system, a customizable obstacle course that can be raised or lowered from the ceiling in under 60 seconds. This obstacle course will create 3-D challenges for swimmers and exercisers of all ages and at any fitness level.
The 1,000-square-foot leisure pool will offer warmer water than the competition pool, intended for intramural water basketball and volleyball, water aerobics and swim lessons.
The new hot tub will accommodate 25 people. The steam room will offer a relaxing experience that can improve circulation, clear congestion, promote skin health, and aid in workout recovery.
