In November 2023, IPTAY and the families of Steven and Michael Watt announced a $5.675 million contribution to support Watt Family Performance and Wellness Center renovations.
The donation will help enhance the facility’s resources and capabilities, ensuring it meets the needs of student-athletes and the broader university community.
The renovations began in December 2023 and will continue until March, according to the Clemson University Athletic Department.
“The project aims to provide cutting-edge amenities and resources that will benefit both current and future generations of Clemson students.”
Garvin Design Group teamed with national sports architecture firm HNTB and Thompson Turner to help Clemson design the campus development. The center is set to open in 2025.
Here is what to know about the Watt Family Performance and Wellness Center renovation plan.
Renovating Watt Family Performance and Wellness Center
The state-of-the-art 55,000-square-foot facility will feature cutting-edge fitness equipment, wellness programs, and spaces designed to enhance athletic performance and student well-being, according to the Clemson University Athletic Department.
The renovation plan incorporates modern design elements such as electrochromic glass, which adapts to light conditions to reduce energy consumption.
Circadian lighting systems will be installed to support natural sleep patterns and improve overall well-being.
UV sterilization technology will also be utilized to maintain a clean and healthy environment within the facility.
The renovation will also include repurposing reclaimed white oak trees from Lot 5 for furniture and wall treatments.
Here is what you need to know about upcoming new Watt Family Performance and Wellness Center features.
Additions to Watt Family Performance and Wellness Center
The Watts Family Performance and Wellness Center will feature a cutting-edge strength and conditioning center and a 40-yard dash area.
Additionally, the center will include a comprehensive wellness and recovery space. Some of the amenities include cryo therapy and hydro massage for mental rejuvenation.
The hydrotherapy and recovery pools will include hot and cold plunge pools, an underwater treadmill, and a custom lap pool.
The newly constructed facility will also house a state-of-the-art sports medicine clinic with exam and procedure rooms, a Gatorade Fuel Bar, and sports nutrition services that offer dietary support for athletes.
A bistro and outdoor patio, with its full-service kitchen, will create a welcoming space where athletes can unwind and enjoy nutritious meals after intense training sessions.
What to know about the Watt family’s support
According to Clemson University, three generations of the Watt family have graduated from Clemson: Steven and Pam Watt, Brandon Watt, Brittany Watt Childers, and Michael and Kimberly Watt.
Steven Watt serves on Clemson University’s President’s Advisory Board. In addition to the Performance and Wellness Center, the Watt family has contributed to the Watt Family Innovation Center, a state-of-the-art information technology facility. The family has also been pivotal in establishing the Watt Family AI Program, an initiative designed to integrate artificial intelligence into university curriculum and research, among other support.
What to know about the Jervey center upgrades
Clemson University has also planned renovations to the Jervey Athletic Center. The center is home to the gymnasium for the volleyball team and offices and training facilities for all of Clemson’s athletic teams.
According to the Clemson University Athletic Department, the project involves a 35,000-square-foot renovation that extends to the basement and gym areas.
It includes raising the Jervey Gym roof by 12 feet, surpassing NCAA minimum height standards.
The renovation will include replacing the gym’s flooring, bleacher seating, audio systems, lighting fixtures, scoreboard, and video board to create a more modern and engaging environment.
Additionally, an upgraded volleyball suite will be constructed, which will include a team meeting room, lounge, locker room, and student-athlete amenities to enhance the athletes’ experience.
The track and field locker room and lounge will also undergo enhancements, including updated lockers, improved lighting, and updated graphics.
An upgraded Premium Ace’s Club will overlook the gym, offering exclusive space for fans and alumni.
The lobby will also be enhanced with improved fan amenities, such as expanded concessions and modern restrooms.
Jervery Gym renovation timeline
The Jervey Gym Renovation Project is divided into two phases to ensure minimal disruption to ongoing athletic activities, according to the Clemson University Athletic Department.
Construction commenced in November 2023 with structural upgrades. A second phase will address interior enhancements, with the entire project expected to be completed by February.
Travis Rose covers Anderson County for the Independent Mail. Reach him via email at [email protected].
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