[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/stadium_seats.jpg” caption=”Installation of the stadium’s 6,000 seats has already begun. Photo by Susan Bubak.”]If you have walked or driven by the David Braley Athletic Centre or Ronald V. Joyce Stadium recently, you will have noticed a great deal of activity and progress. To borrow a phrase from the movie Field of Dreams, “Build it and they will come” is a reality in Athletics & Recreation.

At the David Braley Athletic Centre, growing numbers of students, faculty, staff and community members are gaining great benefit from this world-class facility.

“Since opening two years ago, we've noticed a dramatic surge in participation and support by various members of the community,” says Therese Quigley, director of Athletics & Recreation. “Whether it's students, staff or neighbours, there's been an incredible increase in participation.”

Since opening two years ago, memberships at the Centre have grown to more than 10,000 students, an increase of 22 per cent. In addition, participation in intramural sports is up 30 per cent.

Groups from across the city and province are also benefiting from the Braley Centre. Numerous school tournaments and events have been held on campus since the Centre opened. New children's fitness programming and the Superheros Sport Academy for special needs children ages five and up have been very well received.

Next door at the Ronald V. Joyce Stadium, construction is progressing towards the official opening of the facility on Sept. 13.

Installation of the stadium's 6,000 seats has already begun. The artificial turf and scoreboard will be installed over the next few months. Finishing touches will continue throughout the spring and summer.