Since 2017, the Athletic Factory has focused on providing opportunities to help student athletes. Hundreds of students have been impacted by programming and services including tutoring, SAT/ACT test prep, FAFSA completion, NCAA/NAIA eligibility assistance, skill development, and training. Existing facilities are housed within Trinity Lutheran Church, with a gymnasium floor dating back to the gym’s original construction in 1963. The tile over concrete design is not only in deteriorating condition, but is the worst type of flooring for athletes.
An investment in a new 5,016 sq ft floor will provide a durable, non-slip, multi-use surface designed to provide years of low maintenance and quality performance, providing a safe and secure space for athletes. reducing chance of injury while boosting performance.
How can you help?
The project will cost $60,000. This will include prepping, cleaning and leveling the concrete floor, installation of Herculan 33 Blue Urethane Floor System, volleyball covers, and painting of the gymnasium and game lines.
Step Up for the Athletic Factory:
- Support – make a donation or an in-kind donation at one of the levels below
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- Game Winning Shot: $12,000
- Game Tying Free Throw: $6,000
- Outstanding Defensive Player: $3,000
- Top Rebounder: $1,500
- Sportsmanship Award: $1,000
- Step Up: under $999
- Sign up as a volunteer
- Promote The Athletic Factory in your organization
- Advocate at the local, state and federal level for youth sports
Or complete and mail the commitment form to:
The Athletic Factory
Cliff Thomason
1517 10th St.
Port Huron, MI 48060
FAQ
Can I make an in-kind gift?
Yes – the walls in the gym will be painted in addition to the floor replacement. In-kind gifts of paint, supplies and labor are welcome. Contact Cliff at cthomason@theathleticfactory.com for more info.
Why replace the floor in a building you are renting? Why isn’t the church replacing it?
The floor is an investment in the youth that are participating in programs at The Athletic Factory. The organization is seeking an 8-10 year lease. There are no resources from the church to make the repairs.
Have you investigated partnerships with other organizations like SONS and the YMCA?
Other partnerships have been discussed but have not come to fruition. Not able to reach an agreement.
How long should this floor last?
The floor should last for 40-80 years. With proper maintenance, the floor will require repainting every 10-15 years with a resurfacing at 30-50 years.
How important is this flooring for preventing injuries? Didn’t it serve Trinity Lutheran for decades?
The investment in a new 5,016 sf floor will provide a durable, non-slip surface designed to provide years of low maintenance and quality performance, providing a safe and secure space for athletes. The flooring will reduce chance of injury while boosting performance and will be suitable for basketball, volleyball and training.
Why this type of flooring?
When it became apparent that the floor would need to be replaced, Dave Koester, Director of Facilities for Port Huron Area School District, was approached for recommendations. Floor Care Concepts of Wyoming, MI was the vendor selected for the project. Their recommendation was to install a Herculan 33 Blue urethane floor system to best meet the needs of the youth served by The Athletic Factory.