Every seven to eight years, Texas A&M University-Kingsville (TAMUK) sands the floors of the Steinke gym to the original wood. During these renovations, varnish and painted court lines are sanded down to start over as if the gym court is brand new.
Every year the Athletic Department renovates the gym floors, but only some varnish is knocked off the top and is then re-covered with new varnish. However, the court’s appearance was able to be changed more this year.
“The court lines are back in the same area, but they have changed colors,” Sr. Associate Athletic Director Ruben Cantu said. “The logo is now a wood-based logo, so instead of painting the screaming hog with blue paint, we varnished it into wood color.”
Because of changes made by the NCAA, lines on the court for basketball and volleyball were able to be added to make sure TAMUK stays up to par with the NCAA codes and guidelines.
Volleyball poles and their sleeves were also upgraded during the gym renovations. The new poles are now lighter, which should help in taking the nets down and putting them up quicker.
“This new court will be a huge morale boost for our team and our fans,” Head Volleyball Coach Tanya Allen said. “I’m so thankful for all that were involved in making this happen.”
The Athletic Department is also hoping to change the way the baskets in the court hang. Right now, the baskets hang from the roof, but portable ones would be preferred in the future. The department is also looking into upgrading the score tables for a more digital and modern look.
“We have a number of players on campus this summer and they are extremely excited about the look of the floor,” Head Women’s Basketball Coach Michael Madrid said.
Renovations for the Steinke gym were completed this month and students and faculty members can look forward to seeing the changes to the gym in the upcoming semester as basketball and volleyball season nears.
