Buena Vista University Unveils New Athletic Performance Facility

September 18, 2025

Buena Vista University (BVU) proudly celebrated the opening of its new 7,500-square-foot Athletic Performance Facility this past Saturday, September 13, marking the first major milestone of the university's Building Champions campaign.

The event, held in Siebens Fieldhouse, brought together donors, alumni, and community members for a morning of celebration. A short program featured remarks from BVU President, Dr. Brian A. Lenzmeier; legendary Beaver softball coach Marge Willadsen; Director of Athletics Amy Maier; and student-athlete Danika Demers. Guests enjoyed a first look at the facility, followed by a celebratory brunch, a VIP tailgate, and a Beaver football victory over Wisconsin Lutheran College, 17 to 6.

"This facility is more than a place to train," said President Lenzmeier. "It reflects our belief in our students' abilities and the skills they are developing here. These are skills they will carry long after they leave BVU. Through the Building Champions campaign, we are investing in the growth of future leaders both on and off the playing surface."

Willadsen, who coached BVU softball for twenty-eight years and now serves on the campaign's steering committee, thanked donors for making the project possible and previewed the next phase. "I am especially proud to serve on the committee that helped bring this facility to life," she said. "On behalf of the committee, I want to thank all the generous donors whose support made this possible. Phase Two will bring exciting upgrades, including an expanded Al Baxter Wrestling Room and a renovated football locker room. This is what building champions is all about: preparing young people to achieve, lead, and carry the Beaver spirit into everything they do."

Demers reflected on the community pride this milestone represents. "When I spoke at the groundbreaking, I shared that what I love most about being a Beaver is our commitment to bettering what is around us," she said. "This new facility is a powerful example of that commitment, and I am proud to be part of it."

The Building Champions campaign will continue transforming BVU athletics, with additional enhancements ahead, including a major renovation of the Dennis Young Indoor Track, scheduled for summer 2026.