One of southern Alberta’s most utilized sporting and community hubs is getting a new name. Thanks to a monumental 25-year, $4.25 million partnership between South Country Co-op, Federated Co-op and the University of Lethbridge, the University’s Centre for Sport & Wellness will now be known as the Co-op Centre for Sport & Wellness.

“This is one of the most significant community-based naming partnerships in our university’s history — a commitment that will strengthen wellness, recreation and sport for students and the entire southern Alberta community,” says ULethbridge Vice-President, External Relations, Kathy Greenwood. “Thank you to South Country Co-op and Federated Co-op, their leadership, employees and members for believing in our mission and in the potential of this centre.”

Opened in 2007 in celebration of the University’s 40th anniversary, the Co-op Centre for Sport & Wellness welcomes more than 500,000 people through its doors annually — from students and faculty to athletes, spectators and visitors from across the country. It has hosted provincial and national championships, provided a training ground for Pronghorn athletes and served as a community hub for wellness and recreation.

“Beyond the events and the numbers, this building has always been about people — students finding balance, children discovering sport, seniors accessing wellness programs and athletes chasing their dreams,” says Neil Langevin (BA/BEd '91, MEd '10), executive director, Athletics and Recreation Services. “This investment by South Country Co-op and Federated Co-op ensures that this facility remains vibrant, accessible and sustainable for the next 25 years. It is a partnership that reflects shared values of community, people and wellness.”

Far more than a new name and signage, the partnership allows the University to enhance and modernize the facility, its equipment and programming, ensuring students, athletes and community members have access to an optimum environment in which to learn, compete and grow.

“We see the Centre for Sport & Wellness as more than a fitness facility, rather it is a place where people come together and celebrate community, which echoes the values and purpose statement of South Country Co-op and Federated Co-op,” says Graham Getz, CEO. “This facility engages every generation, from children participating in sport camps to tournaments, conferences and events, to seniors taking fitness classes and everything in between, all in the name of health and wellness. We’re proud to be a part of that journey.”

In addition, thanks to the ULethbridge Board of Governors $10-million matching program, a portion of the funds will be matched, establishing an endowed scholarship in perpetuity. This creates opportunities for students to have access to critical financial support that carries the South Country Co-op name.

“The opportunity to contribute to student scholarships was a key consideration in this partnership,” adds Getz. “Our sponsorship is an investment in the future and by supporting students in their academic careers, we feel we are supporting student success and strengthening our community for future generations.”

Since 2007, the Centre for Sport & Wellness has served as a gathering place for many of the region’s most important games, tournaments and events. As the Co-op Centre for Sport & Wellness, it promises to play an even bigger role moving forward.

“This is a transformational gift that will benefit students, strengthen Pronghorn Athletics and elevate wellness in the community for years to come,” adds Langevin. “Thank you, South Country Co-op and Federated Co-op, for supporting our vision and showcasing the strength of community and the power of collaboration.”