Sept. 28, 2016
(WASHINGTON, D.C.) Thanks to an anonymous donation of $2.5 million, The Catholic University of America Athletics Department will renovate the Raymond A. DuFour Center with construction scheduled to begin this winter.
The "generous donation" is the single largest gift to the Athletics Department since the DuFour Center was constructed more than 30 years ago, said Sean Sullivan, associate vice president and athletics director.
"This is a game changer," noted Sullivan. "The University Athletics Department is profoundly grateful for the investment that has been made to improve our facilities. Upon construction completion, the benefits to the overall competitive experience will be felt immediately by our Cardinal student-athletes."
The renovation plan calls for the conversion of the five existing racquetball courts into two men's and two women's locker rooms on the bottom level and coaches' office suites and multipurpose team rooms on the second floor. The multipurpose rooms will provide meeting space for student-athletes. Sullivan noted that the enhancements will also "make a positive impression on recruits."
Part of the construction plan also includes the beautification of the outdoor patio area, closest to the Jone and Martin Dowd Tennis Courts. This venue hosts pre- and post-game gatherings for University teams, alumni, parents, and friends as well as the tent parties held annually over Family Weekend and Cardinal Weekend.
Sullivan said that "this project will positively impact every student-athlete at Catholic University." He added that it is part of a larger plan to upgrade all athletic and recreational facilities on campus that the Athletics Department hopes to finalize this fall.
MEDIA: To schedule an interview or attend this event, contact the Office of Marketing and Communications at cua-public-affairs@cua.edu or 202-319-5600.