FHSU Foundation
Construction is complete on the Bickle-Schmidt Athletic Complex at Fort Hays State University. Those who donated $1,000 or more to the facility, along with all FHSU Difference Makers*, had the opportunity to attend an exclusive preview of the building Feb. 19.
“This impressive project was made possible through the generosity of loyal donors and community members,” said Jason Williby, president and CEO of the FHSU Foundation. “I'm thrilled this group was able to get a VIP tour and first glance of what their support made possible.”
The new 20,000-square-foot facility is located in the south end zone of Lewis Field. Construction for the highly anticipated $11.5 million project kicked off in 2024.
Head Football Coach Chris Brown, was excited to show off enhancements and advanced resources within the building at the VIP preview. “The new athletic training room within this facility will be on par with many Division I universities but will most importantly set us apart as a leader in sports medicine across the highly competitive MIAA Conference and Division II,” explained Brown.
Although the complex will be well-utilized by the Tiger football team, it will enhance training capabilities for all student-athletes. The project will be a recruitment tool, helping FHSU attract top-tier talent from those seeking competitive opportunities and state-of-the-art athletic training amenities. This addition to campus reflects the university’s commitment to keeping student-athletes healthy and performing their best.
“As we look at the future of Tiger Athletics, what unites us is our collective commitment to excellence, ensuring that all our student-athletes have access to the very best resources to learn, train, and compete – the Bickle Schmidt Athletic Complex reflects that commitment,” said FHSU Athletic Director Lisa Goddard McGuirk.
“We are so appreciative of the unwavering support and generosity of our many dedicated donors, who represent immense Tiger pride, tradition, and a continued commitment to excellence. Their tremendous support enhances and elevates the student-athlete experience here at Fort Hays State University.”
Excitement was in the air as FHSU athletic teams had the opportunity to tour the new facility earlier this week. The first floor features a football locker room suited for 130 players, an expanded athletic training area twice the size of the previous space, and hydrotherapy pools with dedicated treatment areas to promote faster healing and rehabilitation.
Megan Wiman, a member of FHSU’s women’s soccer team, referenced how valuable it will be to have the hydrotherapy component available to student-athletes as it’s an amazing tool for recovery. A senior from Olathe, Wiman said, “As I came back from an ACL tear early in my career, it would have been so beneficial to have access to an underwater treadmill as a key piece in my recovery.” She added, “Overall, this is going to be incredible for all athletes whether they are coming back from an injury or in the peak of their season.”
The second floor of the Bickle-Schmidt Athletic Complex offers position-specific meeting rooms, coaches’ offices, and a team meeting room large enough to accommodate 130 people.
It’s not too late to be a part of this exciting project! Those interested can:
- Make a gift of any amount by visiting foundation.fhsu.edu/donate and typing “Bickle-Schmidt Athletic Complex” as the area of designation.
- Name a space within the Bickle-Schmidt Athletic Complex on a first-come, first-paid basis in honor of yourself, a loved one, teammate, or business.
- Name a locker in the new football locker room for $3,000 by visiting foundation.fhsu.edu/football-locker-naming. You have the option to pay this over three years, if needed.
For additional information, contact: Thomas Zimmerman, FHSU Foundation, 785-628-4129, tazimmerman@fhsu.edu or Jason Williby, FHSU Foundation, 785-628-5620, jjwilliby3@fhsu.edu.
*Difference Makers - Comprised of a group of individuals and businesses that have chosen to help make FHSU Athletics stronger. This prestigious booster group has made noticeable progress toward enhancing the university’s sports facilities and programs, while increasing scholarship support for student-athletes. In addition, FHSU Difference Makers play a key role in the advancement of our athletic program and help provide opportunities for student-athletes to become leaders in their respective sports. Difference Makers are asked to contribute a minimum tax-deductible gift of $5,000 annually to Tiger Athletics.