Grand Opening of Nodak Insurance Company Sports Performance Center

The University of North Dakota (UND) has officially opened the Nodak Insurance Company Sports Performance Center, a state-of-the-art addition to the Fritz Pollard Athletic Center. The grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony took place on September 5, 2023, marking the culmination of a two-year construction project that aims to elevate training facilities for student-athletes.

According to UND’s athletic director, Bill Chaves, the new weight room is the largest in the Dakotas and represents a significant upgrade in training capabilities. “This facility is a game changer,” Chaves remarked, emphasizing that the design promotes efficiency in transitions between the locker room, training room, and weight room. He highlighted that this setup facilitates better communication and enhances the overall experience for student-athletes, addressing their holistic needs.

The $20 million facility features not only an expansive weight room but also modern locker rooms, athlete lounges, athletic offices, an academic center, and sports medicine facilities. The project, funded entirely by private donations, showcases the strong support from the UND community and its commitment to athletic excellence.

During the opening ceremony, attendees were invited to tour the new facility, which was met with enthusiasm from those present. Eric Aasmundstad, chairman of the board of directors at Nodak Insurance, expressed gratitude for the support that made the center possible. He noted that this facility reflects North Dakota’s spirit of striving for excellence across various sectors, including energy and agriculture.

UND President Andrew Armacost also shared his vision for the facility, recalling his first visit to the campus in 2019. At that time, he recognized the need for improved resources for athletes, questioning, “Where’s the rest?” He pointed out that the previous facilities did not align with the expectations of Division I sports. “This is what it’s about,” Armacost stated, stressing the importance of supporting student-athletes not just in sports but in their academic pursuits as well.

The modernization of learning and living spaces on campus aims to enhance both the safety and the success of student-athletes. Armacost remarked that the performance center is designed to foster character and leadership traits among students, aligning with the university’s broader mission.

In reflecting on the fundraising history at UND, Mike Mannausau, vice president of development at the UND Alumni Association and Foundation, highlighted the culture of philanthropy that has developed over the decades. He noted that the project stands as a testament to the enduring support from alumni, friends, and corporate partners. “Just look around at what has been accomplished here in the last 10 years,” Mannausau said, acknowledging the transformative impact of private donations on the university’s athletic programs.

The opening of the Nodak Insurance Company Sports Performance Center signifies a pivotal moment for UND athletics, as it aims to provide student-athletes with the resources necessary to train and compete at the highest levels. The facility not only enhances athletic performance but also serves as a hub for academic and personal development, underscoring the comprehensive approach to student success at the University of North Dakota.