Nearly a decade ago former football captain and trustee emeritus Ian Graham ’50 helped to fund construction of the Ian H. Graham ’50 Athletic Center.

Thanks to Graham’s latest gift to Peddie, the Athletic Center was upgraded this winter with two new wooden basketball courts, a curtain system and a resurfaced indoor track.

Athletic Director Jason Baseden called the enhanced facilities “game-changing.” 

“Having wood floors as opposed to our old rubber floors not only provides the proper playing surface for basketball, but it is much safer for our student-athletes,” Baseden said. “The curtain system acts as a noise inhibitor and safety barrier, allowing us the flexibility to conduct multiple practices and games simultaneously.”

Coaches praised the new facilities for their beauty and functionality.

Indoor Track Head Coach Tim Brennan said that the new track is “by far the best surface in the world.”

Among the track improvements are an additional fifth lane, which has sped up practices and competitions, two expanded lanes to accommodate the 55-meter dash and  55 hurdles, and the ability to run the international standard 1500 and 3000 meters in addition to the high school events, the 1600 and 3200 meters.

Matt Roach, boys’ varsity basketball assistant coach, raved about the new court. “It’s the nicest surface I’ve ever played or coached on,” he said. “I think some of our players jumped a little higher and shot a little sharper because of the springiness and traction.”

“The new court gave a fresh feel to our season,” said Sarah Crider Venanzi, girls’ varsity basketball coach. “I’m grateful that we have a more functional classroom for our athletes to improve their basketball skills, and learn life lessons that will continue to have an impact long after they hang up their Peddie jerseys,” she said.