Spartan Crew Celebrates The Dedication Of New Boathouse
9/15/2002 12:00:00 AM | Women's Rowing
Sept. 15, 2002
LANSING, Mich. - The Michigan State women's crew program dedicated its new boathouse on Saturday, Sept. 14 at Lansing's Grand River Park. Several dignitaries including Lansing Mayor David Hollister, MSU Athletics Director Ron Mason and MSU Assistant Vice President for Finance and Operations Kathy Lindahl were on hand for the ceremony.
The program began with a few short speeches. Senior Rachel Miller (Meeteetse, Wy.) gave the athlete's perspective on their new home.
"We now feel like we've arrived as a program with the addition of this great facility and our new locker rooms at Jenison Field House," said Miller. "We are very greatful for the support we've received from the community, the administration and our parents. This should be the start of a great year."
Mayor Hollister commented on the importance of a partnership with Michigan State University and the benefits that it gives the city of Lansing. He was followed by Lindahl, who was instrumental in the implementation of the MSU crew during her years as Associate Athletics Director.
"It's hard to believe this day is finally here," remarked Lindahl. "I had the wonderful opportunity to be a part of the program when it was started, and I'm so pleased to be here today as the crew moves into its new home."
Athletics Director Mason explained that while he was familiar with boating, although this was a little bit different. Still though, as the winningest coach in college hockey history, he recognizes a great coaching staff and program when he sees one.
"This is a real thrill for me," said Mason. "I'm a boater, but they always have a motor. This program has carried the Michigan State name across the country and is one of the fastest rising programs in the department."
Finally, MSU coach Bebe Bryans had the opportunity to make a few remarks.
"This boathouse is the result of a great sense of teamwork between Michigan State and Lansing," said Bryans. "It is a facility that meets all of our needs without any extra fluff. It could not be any better. We asked for what we needed and that's exactly what we were granted."
The new boathouse provides the Spartans with a first-class facility, including a new locker room, state of the art sliding boat racks, training room and workout room.
Following the speeches, the dignitaries took part in a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The MSU rowing program also dedicated two new boats, the "Kathryn E. Lindahl II" and "Belding's Dream", named in honor of Dick and Marie Belding, two supporters of MSU crew.