The University of Lethbridge’s sports complex has a new name.
A 25-year, $4.25 million deal between the U of L, South Country Co-op, Federated Co-op means the facility will now be known as the Co-op Centre for Sport & Wellness.
“This is one of the most significant community-based naming partnerships in our university’s history. [It is] a commitment that will strengthen wellness, recreation and sport for students and the entire southern Alberta community,” says U of L Vice-President, External Relations, Kathy Greenwood.
The centre opened in 2007 as part of the post-secondary’s 40th anniversary celebrations. Officials note over 500,000 people walk through its doors every year, with the site having played host to provincial and national championships, offering a training area for Pronghorn student-athletes and serving as a community wellness and recreation hub.
“Beyond the events and the numbers, this building has always been about people — students finding balance, children discovering sport, seniors accessing wellness programs and athletes chasing their dreams,” says Neil Langevin, executive director of Athletics and Recreation Services. “This investment by South Country Co-op and Federated Co-op ensures that this facility remains vibrant, accessible and sustainable for the next 25 years. It is a partnership that reflects shared values of community, people and wellness.”
The U of L says the partnership means the school will be able to modernize the facility and update its equipment and programming. Additionally, a portion of the funds will be matched, as part of the U of L Board of Governors $10 million matching program. Those funds will be used to create an endowed scholarship in perpetuity.
“The opportunity to contribute to student scholarships was a key consideration in this partnership,” says Co-op CEO Graham Getz. “Our sponsorship is an investment in the future and by supporting students in their academic careers, we feel we are supporting student success and strengthening our community for future generations.”
