A game-changer for Skyhawk student-athletes

After years of planning, fundraising, and renovations, Fort Lewis College has opened the doors to a transformative new facility: the CommonSpirit Sports Performance Center. This $6 million, 10,000-square-foot space marks a new era for student-athlete wellness, performance, and academic support. 

“This isn’t just a training space— it’s a symbol of how deeply we’re invested in our students,” said Travis Whipple, FLC’s former director of Athletics. “From strength and rehab to nutrition and academics, everything athletes need is here under one roof.” 

The state-of-the-art facility serves FLC’s 500 student-athletes with 24 weight racks, cutting-edge cardio and rehab equipment, and a turf area supported by Alpine Bank. A 250-square-foot Fueling Station, sponsored by Durango Coca-Cola, offers free pre-, mid-, and post-workout nutrition. Upstairs, a 2,000-square-foot mezzanine provides space for film review, study sessions, and team meetings, supporting the full student-athlete experience. 

Key design features include training quadrants that allow multiple teams to work out simultaneously and the Morehart Family Academic Achievement Wall, which recognizes student-athletes with a 3.5 GPA or higher. 

“We’ve never had anything like this before,” said Alec Munro, assistant athletic director for Sports Performance and Wellness. “It’s truly a top-tier facility—especially for a Division II school.” 

The Center was made possible through a lead gift from CommonSpirit Mercy Hospital and generous support from community partners, including Alpine Bank, Coca-Cola, and many alumni and donors. FLC celebrated its grand opening in April with 200 supporters in attendance. 

The president of CommonSpirit Mercy Hospital, Josh Neff, emphasized the facility’s more profound impact: “This is what it looks like when innovation meets purpose. Movement, connection, and community are all vital to mental and physical health, and this Center supports all three.” 

For student-athletes like softball player Cali Niccum, the upgrade is a dream realized. “You can lift, recover, refuel— it’s all here,” she said. “This is what every athlete hopes for.” 

Access to the CommonSpirit Sports Performance Center will expand in Fall 2025 to include Student Life Center members, ensuring its benefits reach the broader campus community.