Great Scot 172 Edition 2 2024 | Page 36

NEWS
KAMINSKY FAMILY HIGH-PERFORMANCE GYMNASIUM MAKES ITS DEBUT
CAPTION HERE PLEASE ....
In Term 3 , the Kaminsky Family High Performance Gymnasium opened , becoming a significant addition to Scotch ' s athletic development program . The gym was officially unveiled with a memorable opening ceremony on Thursday 15 August , followed by a high intensity workout with all in attendance – young and old !
The new facility is the culmination of a collective fundraising effort from Old Boys , auxiliaries and the school to expand the functional training programs for all sports , improving our athletes ’ muscle strength , power , flexibility and sport-specific performance .
Scotch ’ s Director of Sport , Stuart Powell , believes the school will look back at the opening of the gym as a meaningful moment in the development of Scotch ’ s sports program . More than 90 boys now use the gym each day , before and after school , and at lunchtimes . Under the guidance of strength and conditioning coaches , boys work out in sessions tailored to their individual sport requirements .
‘ We wanted to provide an inspiring space where boys are excited about using the area and motivated to get on board with the opportunities provided ,’ Stuart Powell said . ‘ The boys ’ training will assist in their sporting development and help them gain the many holistic benefits of regular physical activity . I am extremely proud of what the school has established , and we are already seeing the benefits in our sporting programs .’
Mr Powell described the response to the new facility from the Scotch Family as ‘ awesome ’, with even a little envy shown by
some Old Boys . ‘ I have loved seeing the expressions change on people ’ s faces as they walk into the new space .’
Captain of Rugby Nick Heery said the new gym has enabled the rugby boys to start preseason training , and they are gaining size and physicality to add to their existing skill set . ‘ They are enjoying training with one of our rugby coaches , Gregor , and becoming closer with their teammates while simultaneously getting stronger and faster ,’ he said .
Captain of Football , Tom Farrer , reflected on how the new gym is a valuable addition to the football program , allowing boys to train several times a week , and improving their strength so that they can compete at a higher level . ‘ The greatest aspect of the new gym is the opportunity to spend quality time with other boys in the sports program , and developing the football culture with each session ,’ he said .
While the boys have been enjoying the new facilities , Scotch staff are also seeing the benefits of the new gym , with access to develop their physical fitness and support their mental wellbeing before and after work hours each day .
The Scotch Family is most grateful to the Kaminsky family and to Ken Jasper (' 55 ), for their significant financial support of this new facility . We also thank the 1858 Club and the Scrum Club parent auxiliaries , as well as the many other generous donors who have brought this special project to life .
34 Great Scot Issue 172 – Edition 2 2024