By MaggieTynan

The new and improved Marian Outdoor Athletic Complex is nearing completion. This project is finally giving the Crusaders a place they can call their own. In the past couple years, the soccer teams have had to practice and play at Tranquility Park and the track team has either traveled to Boys Town, or practiced on Marian’s dirt track with no lanes. 

This new complex is a huge step up from the past, and Marian girls are very thankful for the donors who made this possible. 

“The new track has helped our team and athleticism improve,” junior Joslyn McKee said. “It helps us feel more comfortable being able to run on a real track.” 

Members of the track team love being able to stay on campus every day. “The new track prevents injuries that are caused by running in the gyms and hallways. We can wear our racing spikes that we compete in now that we are outside,” senior Olivia Strako  said. 

The soccer team is also reaping the benefits of the new facility. The environment at games has improved with a more enhanced student section and a new concession stand. 

“The team plays with more motivation and enthusiasm when we know we are defending our own turf,”  junior  Anna Bragg said. “It is always fun when Marian girls come out and support the team!” 

Marian softball and tennis have gained huge improvements through this project as well. The tennis courts were revamped with all new fencing and bleachers; softballs space was revamped with expanded dugouts, a new press box, and an all new pitching warm up area.

Marian has recently purchased a property down by the softball field. This new facility is called the MAC (Marian Athletic Center). The MAC is a newly renovated and constructed indoor training facility. It will house a brand new golf training lab with two hitting bays and simulators, as well as a 32’ by 23’ sloped putting green with a chipping area and a sand pit.

The space will also include two indoor softball batting cages and a space for the wrestling team to train. 

Marian held a ribbon cutting ceremony to thank the generous donors on April 13, 2023. The ceremony celebrated all of the hard work and dedication that has been put in to make this possible. 

During the celebration Michelle Ernst said, “With the completion of this project, we’ve solidified our commitment to this north Omaha community and we’ve positioned ourselves to continue the good work started by the Servants of Mary 68 years ago.”