CGA Strategic Goal: Promote Physical Excellence
The new Emlen Tunnell Strength & Conditioning Center features state-of-the-art equipment and is located in Roland Hall, replacing the current racquetball courts. This nearly 8,000-square foot, two-level center provides outstanding views of the Thames River and CGA waterfront, while delivering a training space for the entire Corps of Cadets to aid in their physical development.
The USCGA Alumni Association, in consultation with interim CGA Director of Athletics and an engineering firm, conducted a feasibility study on repurposing the current racquetball courts. Racquetball is no longer in the cadet PE curriculum and, based on usage rates, is one of the more underutilized spaces on campus. The very high ceilings in the space allow for a design that incorporates a mezzanine level, adding square footage for cardio equipment, a warm-up area, locker room, and storage. Large windows installed in the current concrete walls both capture natural lighting and take advantage of the water views.
(Totals include pledges made by Classes and Individuals.)
Who was Emlen Tunnell?
Former U.S. Coast Guard member and Pro Football Hall
of Famer Emlen Tunnell enlisted in the Coast Guard in 1943 and
in 2011 was posthumously awarded the Silver Lifesaving Medal for his
heroism in rescuing his shipmates on both the Etamin (in 1944) and Tampa (in
1946). Tunnell was the first African American and first defensive
player inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1967. He was the
first African American player for the New York Giants and went on to
become the first African American scout, talent scout, assistant coach
and first full-time assistant coach in the NFL.
Why Now?
While CGA’s athletic facilities have improved significantly in the last
several years, the current strength and conditioning spaces leave much
to be desired – in terms of size, capacity, equipment and locations. In
comparison to our DIII counterparts, our facilities make it more
difficult to recruit cadet-athletes, as well as, adequately train
current athletes to remain competitive.
With over 80% of the Corps participating in either a varsity or club
sport, the current facilities cannot meet the demands. For example, many
cadets cannot access strength and conditioning equipment during the
daily Athletics Period. In addition, there is currently no place for the
full time strength coach to work with an entire team at one time.
A larger facility will meet the strength and conditioning interests and
needs of the Corps of Cadets as a whole, and specifically for members of
varsity and club athletic teams. It will improve the stature of the CGA
athletic program in the eyes of prospective cadets. The new center will
not only level the playing field with our DIII counterparts, but will
also contribute to the Academy’s strategic goal of building a culture
that ensures success in competition, leadership development, and
lifelong wellness.