All-new gymnasium is a slam dunk for WinSport

The newly completed WinSport Gymnasium at Canada Olympic Park has officially opened its doors, debuting with a flurry of activity thanks to our summer basketball camps that are now underway. 

Previously absent of an actual court, the area has recently been transformed with the installation of wood flooring, two motorized backboards, and tempered glass to form a partial enclosure. 

This separate section on the southeast corner of the dual-sided fitness facility was also expanded. Three structural columns were reconfigured to increase its footprint from 3,600 to 7,600 sq. ft. 

“The space used to be what we called our multi-sport facility,” says Brett Walker, Manager, Performance Training Centre, who oversees its day-to-day operations. “We started this renovation a couple months ago and we’ve really been looking forward to opening it. It’s a full gymnasium for everyone from grassroots development up to national-calibre talent.” 

The project was completed in partnership with the Government of Alberta’s Ministry of Tourism and Sport. Their Active Communities Initiative provides funding for all types of public-use community sport and recreation facilities. 

Although construction began in early May, it was a year-long undertaking from start to finish, considering the grant application was submitted to provincial decision-makers last July. 

Soon-to-be user groups—in addition to summer camps—will consist of the National Sport School students, public sport organizations, and those making soon-to-be-available online private bookings. 

Up until now, all gymnasium activities on behalf of WinSport took place on the lower level of the still-serviceable Bob Niven Training Centre (BNTC) across the road from the Markin MacPhail Centre. 

However, in addition to hoopsters flocking for the WinSport Gymnasium, many para athletes from various sports will also now make their way over to the new exquisite space due to its significantly superior accessibility. 

“The primary function of our new facility is definitely basketball, but paired with the BNTC and the gymnasium there, we can accommodate (sports such as) lacrosse, football, and indoor soccer,” Walker explains. “We can use this facility year-round and it’s going to be great for any of our current demographics and future ones, as well.” 

Up until it’s opening last week with summer camp participants, the WinSport Gymnasium had only been admired from afar. The pearly white nets were still tied off while the court’s sealant was still settling overtop of its freshly painted lines. 

But it’s now time to tip things off and throw down, with authority, over previous numbers like never before. 

Early projections indicate the new-look layout will increase yearly activity levels by 24% (or 1,142 hours) compared to those of its multi-sport days. 

“Gymnasium space across the city is at a premium,” indicates Walker. “Utilizing it to the best of our abilities, while serving our communities and partners, will only benefit us and continue our growth in the athletic development world.” 

For rental booking information, call us at 403-247-5405 or email us at ptc@winsport.ca