In addition to building four varsity courts, a baseball-stadium-style berm seating area, shower stations and live-streaming capabilities for competitions will complete the $600,000 project. “Especially with South Beach and Kappa Field right there, it fits in perfectly with the entire vibe of the area,” McDermott says.
“It will be wonderful to see the beautiful and amazing gem of academic excellence that is our campus become more visible to the rest of the community. So many don’t have the opportunity to interact with our campus, and this will be another way.” “This facility means so much to our program, and it really wouldn’t be possible without our alumnae who paved the way for Eckerd Beach Volleyball over the years,” says Michelle Piantadosi-Lima, the team’s head coach.
“Our current players are thrilled to be able to host their games and tournaments on campus, and I know this will be a facility that highlights who we are at Eckerd.” The facility is expected to open in January, just in time for the February start of the beach volleyball season. McDermott encourages alumni and friends of the College dedicated to enhancing the student experience to make a gift toward these projects.