The $32,000 improvement will provide eight new state-of-the-art starting blocks that will be installed later this year. The indoor pool was named in 2003 in honor of a gift from the family of James C. ’43 and Gratia Coultas, who were long supporters of IC athletics and instrumental in the construction of IC’s Bruner Fitness and Recreation Center.

Head Swimming & Diving Coach Christopher Sykes said the blocks will enhance IC’s top-notch swimming facilities, and set IC apart in the conference.

“We will be able to achieve faster times,” he said. “These blocks incorporate the latest swimming technology to give our team the competitive edge at home. I am excited to put them to use.”

Sykes also expressed the entire team’s appreciation for those who made a gift toward the project. Many of the donors were parents of current student-athletes, while others are alumni of the team.

Three lead donors supported the project through gifts to Inspiring Achievement: The Campaign for Illinois College: Bill Maxey ’75, Ross ’13 and Danielle Barker, and Todd and Anita Howey P’21.

Maxey participated in the club swim team as a student at IC, before the sport became an NCAA program in 2007; now swimming and diving compete in the Midwest Division. Barker competed in the Midwest conference as a student-athlete.

The Howeys’ son, Jake Howey ’21, is a senior in men’s swimming. While he faced a season-ending injury early in his sophomore year at IC, his teammates, athletic trainers and coaches were dedicated to helping him recover and make a strong comeback last year.

The Howey family was instrumental in launching the starting block campaign. They provided an initial matching gift to encourage others to give and helped coordinate fundraising efforts.

According to Athletics Director Mike Snyder this support will help student-athletes reach their potential with improved training and performance at home meets.

“There is a lot of momentum happening in IC athletics right now,” he said. “I am grateful for the widespread support and enthusiasm of our parents and alumni — their backing is a key component of our success in any sport.”