Located in the heart of Bloomington, Illinois, Illinois Wesleyan University's Shirk Center is a premier athletic and recreational facility that serves as a hub for student-athletes, faculty, and staff. As one of the top liberal arts universities in the country, Illinois Wesleyan is committed to providing its students with a well-rounded education that extends beyond the classroom. The Shirk Center is a testament to this commitment, offering a wide range of programs and services that cater to the diverse needs of the university community.
The Shirk Center is named after John and Anne Shirk, whose generous donation made the construction of the facility possible. The center is a 135,000-square-foot complex that features state-of-the-art athletic facilities, including a 2,200-seat arena, a 25-yard swimming pool, and a 200-meter indoor track. The facility also includes a fitness center, a dance studio, and a number of classrooms and meeting spaces.
Athletic Programs and Facilities
The Shirk Center is home to Illinois Wesleyan's 27 varsity sports teams, which compete in the NCAA Division III. The facility features a number of top-notch athletic facilities, including a 2,200-seat arena that hosts basketball and volleyball games, as well as a 25-yard swimming pool and a 200-meter indoor track.
In addition to its athletic facilities, the Shirk Center also offers a number of recreational programs and services, including fitness classes, personal training, and aquatic programs. The facility's fitness center features a wide range of cardiovascular and strength-training equipment, as well as a number of free weights and exercise machines.
Fitness and Wellness Programs
The Shirk Center offers a variety of fitness and wellness programs designed to promote healthy lifestyles and improve overall well-being. The facility's fitness center features a number of group fitness classes, including yoga, Pilates, and cardio kickboxing. Personal training sessions are also available, providing individuals with one-on-one instruction and guidance.
Aquatic programs are also available at the Shirk Center, including swimming lessons, water aerobics, and lifeguard certification courses. The facility's 25-yard swimming pool is open to students, faculty, and staff, providing a convenient and accessible place to swim laps, take a water fitness class, or simply relax.
Campus Events and Activities
The Shirk Center is not just a place for athletics and recreation; it is also a hub for campus events and activities. The facility hosts a wide range of events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and cultural events.
The Shirk Center's 2,200-seat arena is an ideal venue for concerts and performances, featuring a state-of-the-art sound and lighting system. The facility has hosted a number of notable performers, including musicians, comedians, and speakers.
Community Engagement
The Shirk Center is committed to community engagement, offering a number of programs and services designed to promote healthy lifestyles and improve overall well-being. The facility's fitness center and aquatic programs are open to the public, providing a convenient and accessible place to stay active and healthy.
The Shirk Center also partners with local organizations and businesses to promote healthy lifestyles and improve overall well-being. The facility has partnered with the American Heart Association, the American Cancer Society, and the YMCA, among others, to offer a number of programs and services designed to promote healthy lifestyles.
What types of programs and services does the Shirk Center offer?
+The Shirk Center offers a wide range of programs and services, including athletic programs, fitness classes, personal training, aquatic programs, and campus events.
Is the Shirk Center open to the public?
+Yes, the Shirk Center is open to the public, offering a number of programs and services designed to promote healthy lifestyles and improve overall well-being.
Can I rent the Shirk Center for a private event?
+Yes, the Shirk Center is available for rent for private events, including weddings, birthday parties, and corporate events.