EMMIE BOESE
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Trinity Catholic Jr./Sr. High School will build a new auxiliary gym. The ground breaking ceremony for a 12,220 square foot gym was on Thursday, Jan. 4.
Jan Frieb is in her 32nd year as an educator at Trinity Catholic. Frieb teaches physical education, social sciences and is a volleyball and track coach. She said two things come to mind when thinking about additional space for class and athletics which is a heart of gratitude and an incredible opportunity.
"I can't believe this is happening. I really can't," Frieb said at the groundbreaking ceremony.
Trinity Catholic started to receive funds for the auxiliary gym in the Fall of 2022. Donations were sent to the capital Fulfill the Promise Campaign.
The need for an additional gym was identified in a feasibility study in 2012. As a result, the Commitment to Excellence Campaign was launched in 2013. The goal for a new gym was factored into the second phase.
The Commitment for Excellence campaign completion in 2013 included a library expansion, renovations of the main gym, locker rooms and football stadium updates. School administration said despite a successful campaign, it fell short of raising money for an additional gym in the final phase with only $500,000 dollars left for a gym.
Community leader and local businessman Brad Pryor is a future parent of a Trinity Catholic student. He helped lead the promise campaign.
"This is a very exciting day because there's no better investment in this community than you kids," Pryor said before the groundbreaking. "That is the best investment we can make, into kids and education, so to drive by here and see the Weins Construction sign up, it really it's an emotional time, because this is a big deal."
The estimated completion date for the gym is October of 2024. The total project cost is $2,350,000. Currently, the school reported that there is $1,605,000 available for the project with the current capital campaign. The pledge balance sits at $715,000.
More information about the progress of the gym and information about how to donate is available at www.trinity-hutch.com.
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