Vis/STA Aquatics Center Project
Help us Reach the Finish Line!
WE ARE BUILDING A NEW POOL!
Exciting news is on the horizon for Visitation School and Saint Thomas Academy as we embark on a groundbreaking endeavor: the construction of a state-of-the-art Aquatic Center. The Saint Thomas Academy Board of Trustees has recently approved the signing of a contract with OPUS Design Build to bring this vision to life, marking May as the commencement month with the demolition of the current pool.
In a collaborative effort, both institutions are actively raising the additional funds needed for full realization of the project. Anticipated for completion by June 2025, the ambitious $12 million facility promises to redefine aquatic experiences for student-athletes and community members.
The Michel Aquatic Center, dedicated to Dolly and Chuck Michel, this monumental venture has received overwhelming support from lead donors Chip (STA ’67) and Mary Michel. Their gratitude extends to the Visitation and STA Communities whose unwavering support has propelled this dream into reality over the course of three years.
See below for a glimpse into the architectural marvel that awaits. And, keep an eye out for updates as we embark on this thrilling journey towards the future!
Thank you for your ongoing commitment to the excellence of Visitation School and Saint Thomas Academy. Please consider making a gift today. Together, let's make a splash into the future!
For nearly 60 years, the shared pool at Saint Thomas Academy has been the site of numerous triumphs, including most recently, Visitation’s 10th straight state championship in November. The new aquatic center, made possible by generous support from our community, will proudly showcase co-branded elements representing both Visitation and STA, complete renovation of the locker rooms for Vis and STA athletes, and a new dedicated diving area. I look forward to construction starting this summer, marking a new era for the swim programs for both schools and for the greater community.
-- Rene Gavic, Head of School
After nearly two-plus decades of talking about a new pool, this will happen, and we intend to break ground in the spring/summer of 2024! What has been designed has been done so intentionally to provide our swimmers from STA and Vis an incredible experience, including new locker rooms for each team. This will be a premier pool in the metro area and a wonderful opportunity for local schools, including the Catholic Athletic Association (CAA), to host their final meet, which can help bring thousands of prospective students and families into our excellent school.
- President Brian Ragatz ‘98
Donate to the Vis/STA Aquatic Project
Project Summary
- 8 lane, 25 yard pool
- Expansive pool deck
- New locker room spaces for both Visitation and Saint Thomas Academy
- Expansive Glass with an Eastern exposure
- 350 person seating capacity and observation deck for additional capacity
- Co-branded for Vis and STA
- New Scoreboard and Record Boards
- Diving area and diving board