Buena Vista University in the US state of Iowa has broken ground on the expansion of Siebens Fieldhouse. 

This marks the beginning of phase one of a $10m project aimed at improving Beaver Athletics.  

The groundbreaking ceremony saw participation from the BVU community, Storm Lake residents, University trustees, and alumni board members. 

The extension, which will cover an area exceeding 7,000ft², is designed to include an athletics performance facility.  

This facility will have specialised zones for strength training, conditioning, cross-training, and rehabilitation.  

It will include 16 in-ground platforms and power racks, branded weight plates and dumbbells as well as Olympic-style weightlifting equipment suitable for both women and men. 

It will also feature an expansive turf area of more than 1,000ft². 

Once the full funding is secured, the refurbishment of existing facilities will be undertaken. 

These facilities consist of Al Baxter Wrestling Room, the Lamberti Recreation Center, Dennis Young Track, locker rooms, general workout areas, meeting rooms, and offices for the coaching staff.  

So far, the project has secured three donations amounting to a total of $6.3m. 

Construction is anticipated to commence this summer (June to August) and is expected to minimally impact scheduled events.  

Siebens Fieldhouse, established in 1969, serves as the hub for the Beavers' 21 NCAA Division III teams.  

The facility includes athletic administrative offices and a gymnasium that can accommodate up to 3,000 spectators, among others. The last update to the Fieldhouse was completed in 2021. 

This comes after the university revealed its new ten-year strategic vision, ‘Building Beyond Expectations,’ in January this year.

This vision is focused on empowering students to realise their full potential, and fostering stronger communities.