Designed to optimize the community’s investment in expanded indoor programming, maximize scheduling, and enhance performance excellence, the Laker Athletic Center provides increased opportunities for students of Spring Lake Public Schools. With highly rated schools and proximity to Grand Rapids and Lake Michigan, Spring Lake, Michigan, has emerged as a desirable community for families. Spring Lake Public Schools consistently fields competitive athletic programs, but student athletes and the marching band faced limitations due to inclement weather and transportation challenges resulting from an offsite football stadium.

The new Laker athletic center provides premiere, on-campus training space for students, athletes, and performing arts programs. The first floor features an expansive multi-functional synthetic turf field, two-lane sprint track, and a 6,000 SF weight room featuring 24 power racks with integrated technology, spaces efficiently supported by a training room, restrooms, and storage. Positioned above first-floor support spaces, a mezzanine overlooks the field and houses dedicated space for wrestling and competitive cheer and dance teams, programs previously constrained by inadequate or shared spaces.

Interior finishes were thoughtfully selected for resiliency and to cultivate community pride with interior accents in signature Spring Lake red, charcoal, and black and wall graphics with Laker mascot Larry. The weight room features customized wall graphics featuring motivational phrases collected from athletic program participants.

TMP worked in close collaboration with District leaders and stakeholders to design this state-of-the-art athletic center that elevates student development, expands year-round programming, and unites the community in wellness and pride.