Loyola Academy Blesses and Celebrates New Athletic Performance Center

The event began with a warm welcome and message of gratitude from Loyola Academy President Rev. Gregory J. Ostdiek, SJ, to key donors and committee members whose vision and generosity made the project possible. Fr. Greg offered a blessing over the space before guests heard from Vice President for Athletics and Fitness Genevieve Atwood, who shared how the new APC will enhance training and athletic development for all student-athletes, noting that it allows for more personalized conditioning and advanced skill development. The address concluded with Champions Campaign Chair Angelo Bufalino, who reflected on the success of the Champions Campaign, established to raise the necessary resources for this investment, and thanked the Loyola community for its generosity in helping to bring the vision of the new center to life. He emphasized how donor support has helped elevate athletics, academics, and student opportunities across campus.

Located in the renovated lower level of the school’s campus, the new APC more than doubles the size of the former weight room, offering an expansive environment that fosters growth, fitness, and leadership, and rivals Division I training facilities. Outfitted with 16 Sorinex lifting racks, custom Rambler-branded weight plates, indoor turf, and advanced cardio and training equipment, the APC is designed to enhance strength, agility, and conditioning for all Loyola student-athletes. Additional features include TRX suspension trainers, Vertimax Raptors, Sorinex Frankenhyper machines, plyo boxes, striking pads, and glute/ham rollers, along with improved lighting, ventilation, and technology. Two large 75-inch monitors enable coaches to incorporate workouts and presentations directly into training, while new office and storage spaces enhance oversight and accessibility. A planned timeline of Rambler athletic photos, honoring the school’s rich sports history, is coming soon.

“Our new Athletic Performance Center is about more than strength and conditioning—it is an extension of Loyola’s mission of cura personalis, the care of the whole person,” Fr. Greg said following the event. “We are forming students who are not only physically and socially-emotionally fit, but also intellectually curious, open to growth, and spiritually grounded. Every improvement on campus helps us live our mission and prepare students to lead lives of purpose.”

The APC is part of a broader set of improvements and upgrades made over the summer, including renovated classrooms, a refreshed library, a completely remodeled dance studio, cardio lab, and music practice rooms, to name a few. The blessing of the APC marks a milestone in Loyola’s ongoing investment in spaces where students can excel academically, athletically, creatively, and personally.

The event concluded with a reception inside the APC before attendees made their way to the stands in Sachs Stadium to cheer on our varsity football team, which faced off against DePaul College Prep. Our Ramblers defeated the Rams with a score of 42-14, marking this game a homecoming victory for Loyola. Go Ramblers!