The unanticipated delay in the opening of Oak Park and River Forest High School’s Project Two facilities, which include the new swimming and diving facility, means the OPRF girls swimming and diving team will have to find somewhere else to train when practice for the season begins Aug. 10.
While the situation is not ideal for OPRF head coach Clyde Lundgren and his program, he’s taking a realistic approach.
“While we were certainly disappointed to learn that the opening of the new pool will be delayed, our overriding feeling is one of gratitude,” Lundgren told Wednesday Journal. “This has been a once-in-a-generation investment in our students, and we understand that projects of this size and complexity occasionally require additional time to ensure everything is done correctly.”
He added that his student-athletes had been eagerly awaiting the grand opening and were disappointed with the announced delay, but they also understand the long-term value of the new facility.
“They recognize how fortunate they are to soon have access to a facility that will serve OPRF students for decades to come,” Lundgren said.
With the new pool now scheduled to open Oct. 1, along with the old West Pool being infilled, the Huskies will conduct practices at nearby schools in the meantime. But the experience last year, when OPRF was on the road due to construction, is bound to help this season.
“It’ll require some flexibility and creativity as we prepare for the season, and it’s something we’ve encountered before,” said Lundgren. “Our coaching staff has always emphasized adaptability, and this presents another opportunity for our athletes to demonstrate resilience. Swimming and diving are sports that teach patience, perseverance, and the ability to control what you can control. If anything, I believe the delay can serve as a motivator. The excitement surrounding the opening of the new pool gives our team something to look forward to and rally around as we begin the season together.”
Once the new pool opens, Lundgren thinks it will greatly benefit the Huskies’ program, not just for this season, but future seasons.
“The impact cannot be overstated. It will provide an outstanding environment for training, competition, and community engagement,” he said. “Beyond the immediate benefits to our current athletes, it will enhance our ability to attract and retain student-athletes, host high-quality competitions, and continue building a culture of excellence within the program.
“Most importantly, it sends a clear message to our students that they are valued and deserving of first-class facilities. Long after our current swimmers and divers have graduated, future generations of Huskies will benefit from this investment. While waiting a few extra weeks isn’t ideal, we’re excited for the day our athletes walk onto the deck for the first time and begin creating memories in their new home.”