GREENVILLE, Pa. (Oct. 21) -- Heavy equipment began moving earth Wednesday at Thiel College as construction officially began on the 40,000-square-foot Olympus Athletic and Recreation Center, a $10 million project that will expand athletic, fitness and recreational opportunities for students and the surrounding community.

Construction is expected to be completed in late fall 2027.

The new facility, located near Stoeber Field at Alumni Stadium, will feature a multipurpose basketball court, an indoor walking and running track, a wellness studio, fitness areas, expanded locker room facilities, meeting and collaboration spaces, and hospitality areas. The center will also include a dedicated locker room for the Thiel football program.

The Olympus Athletic and Recreation Center is designed to serve a broad range of campus activities, including varsity athletics, intramural and club sports, personal fitness and wellness programming.

"This facility will create new opportunities for students to stay active, build relationships and enjoy a more vibrant campus experience," said Michael McKinney '02, vice president for enrollment, student life and athletics. "With football representing our largest varsity program, the dedicated locker room will provide our student-athletes with the first-class facilities they deserve, while the multipurpose spaces will serve our entire campus community. It is another example of how we are investing in Thiel's future and the success of our students."

The project was launched with a $5 million lead gift from James Pedas '50 H'89, a Thiel alumnus and trustee emeritus, and his wife, Wanda. Fundraising continues with the goal of fully funding the project through private donations, grants and foundations.