CLEMSON, S.C. – Clemson held a formal groundbreaking ceremony on Dec. 7 to officially commence the $37.5 million expansion plan for new and upgraded lakefront facilities for lacrosse, gymnastics and rowing. The plan was initially approved in Feb. 2022.
In June 2021, Clemson announced the addition of Women’s Lacrosse and Women’s Gymnastics, which will begin competition in the 2022-23 and 2023-24 academic years, respectively. The stunning new project would overlook Lake Hartwell, adjacent to the current rowing facility, and create a vibrant area for student-athletes. Existing trails in the area will be kept intact. Lacrosse’s first season will take place in Historic Riggs Field while construction is underway, and will move into its new home in late 2023.
We are thrilled to see this project getting underway. We cannot express our appreciation enough for the Clemson athletic administration, IPTAY and all those behind making this project a reality. This is going to be a transformational project for the lacrosse program; giving us the best facilities in women’s lacrosse in just our second year of competition. That speaks to the commitment of Clemson athletics and IPTAY.
There are not words to describe the level of excitement in getting to finally break ground on this project. There are also not words for the level of appreciation and gratitude for everyone that has been involved with supporting starting this new gymnastics program.
On behalf of myself, my staff, and the seven student-athletes that trusted in Clemson and us enough to take this risk, we will forever be grateful and indebted to the Clemson family. My deepest thanks to the Clemson Athletic Administration, President Clements, IPTAY and everyone along the way that has been a part of this incredible process. This whole undertaking has far surpassed my wildest dreams with this incredible opportunity. We cannot wait to get started in this world-class facility and give the Clemson family another thing to take pride in.
The development features a new lacrosse stadium, including bleacher seating and artificial turf, and a 9,000-square-foot operations complex, including coaches’ offices, locker rooms, player lounge and other amenities.
The Gymnastics team, which will compete in Littlejohn Coliseum, will call a new 21,000-square-foot facility home for day-to-day operations and a full practice facility. The gymnastics complex will include a practice gym, offices, locker room, lounge and training room.
The rowing center will undergo a renovation that updates the training room facility, building infrastructure, and several cosmetic updates.
A new 10,000 square foot training and recovery facility with designated space for sports science, nutrition, sports medicine and strength and conditioning, will be constructed to serve the three programs adjacent to their facilities.
Those interested in learning more about how to support the project can reach out to Lauren Gaulin at IPTAY at lgaulin@clemson.edu.
