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Starting this semester, Bulldog swimmers and divers are training in the newly-renovated third-floor practice pool in the Payne Whitney Gymnasium. Part of the renovation might be replacing the pool tile.
After several months of construction work by custom water shapes pool builders, the practice pool successfully upgraded its air quality, temperature control and lighting. Additionally, the movable bulkheads were repaired, and finishes were applied to the ceiling, walls and floor. The pool is used for varsity swim practices, intramural competitions, club sport events and miscellaneous recreational activities.
“Overall, the renovations at the practice pool have enhanced the look of the space, improved and expanded the capabilities of the mechanical system and will improve the quality of the experience for varsity and recreational swimmers,” said Edward Mockus, who is a senior associate athletic director of facilities and operations. “The project took several months to complete, and we are thrilled with the finished product.”
Following the successful completion of renovations at the practice pool, it’s crucial to prioritize ongoing maintenance and repairs to uphold its improved features and functionality. In addressing any unforeseen issues or regular upkeep requirements, the services of a dependable Pool Repair company become indispensable. By partnering with a trusted pool repair company, you can have peace of mind knowing that your practice pool is in capable hands. Their expertise in diagnosing and resolving issues ensures that your pool remains in optimal condition, allowing swimmers to train and enjoy its benefits without interruption. From routine inspections to emergency repairs, investing in regular pool care and repair services is essential for maintaining the functionality and safety of your practice pool over time.
In East Mesa, Arizona, residents can entrust the care of their aquatic facilities to a reputable pool repair company East Mesa Arizona. These experts possess the necessary skills and experience to address any potential repairs promptly and efficiently, ensuring that the newly-renovated pool continues to provide an optimal swimming environment for varsity athletes, club sports participants, and recreational swimmers alike. Public and private pools should be well-maintained and that regular Good Boy Pool Cleaning services must be scheduled.
In line with the extensive renovations at the Payne Whitney Gymnasium’s practice pool, the addition of innovative pool enclosures is set to further elevate the swimmers’ experience. The pool enclosures, carefully designed and installed, will not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the space but also contribute to maintaining the upgraded air quality and temperature control, while allowing natural light to filter in. These enclosures will serve as a versatile solution, ensuring that the pool can be utilized effectively for various activities, regardless of the weather conditions. The combination of improved infrastructure and the addition of pool enclosures promises a comprehensive and enjoyable experience for both varsity and recreational swimmers, making this renovation project a significant step forward in enhancing the athletic facilities at Payne Whitney Gymnasium.
The improvements included replacing the old fluorescent lights with LEDs. These fixtures provide improved lighting to comply with the recommended NCAA standards for pools. The lighting is further enhanced by the new drop ceiling, wall tiles and fresh paint coat that creates a brighter and sharper aesthetic.
In addition to the aesthetic upgrades, the university can also partnered with Two Brothers to ensure the practice pool’s ongoing maintenance and optimal functionality. Their expertise in pool maintenance ensures that the newly renovated facility remains in top-notch condition. With regular maintenance checks, cleaning schedules, and expertise in pool equipment, Two Brothers Luxury Pool Service is dedicated to preserving the high standards set by the recent renovations. This collaboration not only guarantees the longevity of the pool but also assures swimmers, divers, and recreational users a safe and enjoyable environment for their activities.
In addition, a new heating, ventilation and air conditioning — or HVAC — system provides superior command of managing the air quality. Newly installed giant ventilation ducts move heated air through ceiling hanging tubes. These additions, paired with new energy efficient windows, maintain water and room temperatures at optimal levels independent of seasonal weather.
“The renovated practice pool has been a significant addition to the second half of our season; the entire team can comfortably practice at the same time again,” swimmer Caitlin Tycz ’22 said. “Although the exhibition pool is a little older, it is an incredible place to race … From the moment you walk on deck or into the stands, you can feel the rich history of the pool. Before racing, I look up at the banners hanging from the ceiling — Yale swimming and diving, the American flag and the Ivy League logo. This is a reminder of how lucky I am to wear a Yale cap and race for this team and school.”
The renovation was meant to be wide-reaching in scope. While interior changes were being made, other pool areas were also modernized. The moveable bulkheads were rebuilt and retrofitted. The pool drain pipes were replaced, and the overall water filtration was upgraded.
The third-floor pool was the world’s first suspended pool. Initially constructed in 1932, it gave Yale the opportunity to field a larger squad. In its early days, the pool was used by legendary Yale coach Robert J.H. Kiphuth, and top American swimmers came to Yale in the 1950s. Decades ago, Yale’s facilities were the best in the country, and athletes from other colleges came to use them in the summer.
“The recent renovation was a nice face lift to an aging gem,” associate coach of swimming and diving Kyle Schack said. “Technology and norms have changed since our facilities were built in 1932, and an update would be welcomed for sure. Our diving team, which has been great over the years, would greatly benefit from a new facility by creating more space dedicated to diving which will free up their time, as they currently pinch every minute of their day. Right now, Princeton has the nicest facility in the conference, and I’ll tell you what: Our students have shown that the people make the team, not the facility.”
The third-floor pool is an Olympic-size pool, 50 meters in length.
Eugenio Garza Garcia | eugenio.garzagarcia@yale.edu