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The project initially began three years ago, in response to a nationwide craze of pickleball with no courts dedicated to the public in Pocatello at the time. Led by Caroline “Smitty” Faure, a Human Performance and Sport Studies (HPSS) professor at the College of Education, the initiative uniquely engaged her sports management class in conducting a real-life feasibility study to guide the development and implementation of these facilities. 

The feasibility study began with students researching the growing interest and need for pickleball across the nation and in Southeast ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ. From there, the project evolved into identifying potential locations on campus, considering factors such as cost, space dimensions, surface type, and overall suitability for long-term recreational use. Students compiled their findings into a formal proposal, which was then presented to leaders in ISU Campus Recreation, Facilities and Operations.

“I’m big on experiential learning with my students,” said Faure. “They took great interest in what they were doing and knew that their work was going to leave a lasting legacy.”

The final decision for the courts was to redesign the already existing tennis courts outside of Reed Gym to include portable nets that slide into place, turning them into pickleball courts and making it a quick and easy switch between the two sports. 

Since the project did not require building entirely new courts, leftover funds from the grant became available. Faure proposed using those remaining funds to launch a second initiative—renovating Reed Gym’s spinning room by replacing its outdated equipment, which was over 25 years old, with new exercise bikes and upgraded room features. The space was named ROAR Cycle.

Lowell Richards, associate vice president for student affairs and who oversees Campus Recreation, played a key role in helping Faure and her students bring the project to fruition. “The spin room has been open for a semester now, and we offer a class to our gym members.” He said. “We’ve seen more activity in that spin room than we’ve had in years. The new renovations have generated more enthusiasm about spinning again on campus.” 

With the partnership between the department and Campus Recreation, both facilities aim to benefit the College of Education’s HPSS Be Fit (BFIT) program. This program includes over 100 physical education, activity or fitness-related courses for students.

“For me, being a part of these projects was quite special,” said Sabrina Northrup, a previous student involved in the project. “They have stretched my abilities, and it was challenging, yet I gained so many practical skills and experiences. ISU has given me many opportunities and allowed me to grow as a professional. I hope that my contributions are a way to say thank you and give something back.” 

Faure said, “This project is one of many that are being done in the College of Education that benefit our students educationally, and I think having the resources available like the Dean’s Excellence Fund makes a huge difference in what we’re able to accomplish with our students in a way that is meaningful.” 

Those interested in using the pickleball courts or the ROAR Cycle spinning room can visit ISU Campus Recreation’s website to learn more about making reservations and signing up for classes.