Arsenal Technical High School recently experienced a remarkable transformation as the school’s outdated weight room and other facilities were transformed into a state-of-the-art athletic training center.
Employees from Group 1001, a technology-driven financial services company based in Zionsville, Indiana, joined the Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation on July 19–20 for a volunteer project to renovate the school’s fitness spaces, athletic trainer’s room, meeting and media room, and culinary arts wing.
The goal was to create a safe and inclusive space where students could improve their athletic skills and build character, discipline, and leadership through sports, said Darren Thomas, the district’s athletic director.
“Getting the strength and conditioning program up and running is incredible not only for Arsenal Tech students, but athletes from other IPS member schools who use the facilities here,” Thomas said. “We want our kids to be strong, but also well-conditioned in order to avoid injuries.”
During the two-day event, an army of enthusiastic volunteers from Group 1001 rolled up their sleeves, dismantling the outdated weight room, and making way for a brand-new athletic training center to set the stage for a brighter future for students and student-athletes.
The renovated training center boasts cutting-edge equipment and facilities, carefully selected to cater to various sports and fitness levels. The center’s design fosters an atmosphere of camaraderie and encouragement, instilling in the students a sense of pride in their school and athletic pursuits.
Thomas noted that the impact of this project goes beyond the physical changes since it breathes new life into the spirit of the school and its athletic programs. The Arsenal Tech community now has access to top-notch resources that inspire them to reach their full potential, both on and off the field.
The renovation is also a testament to the power of collaboration and community involvement.
“We need organizations like Group 1001 to come out and put their hands in the dirt, so to speak,” Thomas said. “We work hard to provide everything we can for our students, but it truly takes the community’s continued support to ensure that our city’s kids have the opportunities they deserve.”
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