Univ. of Delaware Unveils Whitney Athletic Center

The new integrated hub for training and academics is a one-stop shop for Blue Hen student-athletes at the University of Delaware.

The 90,000-square-foot innovative facility, dubbed the Whitney Athletic Center, houses sports performance on the first floor: athletic training, hydrotherapy, performance nutrition, sport psychology, sports medicine. Additionally, there’s the Joe and Dana Flacco and Family Strength & Conditioning Center, built with the philanthropic support of NFL quarterback and 2008 UD graduate Joe Flacco and his wife. This 10,000-square-foot weight room was created to help elite athletes become the best versions of themselves.

On the second floor is an integrated center for student success that includes study space, academic advisers, career readiness and leadership development offices, and the Whitney Kitchen as an on-campus dining facility for student-athletes who no longer have to trek back to the center of campus for meals.

Next to the Whitney Center is Delaware Stadium. Built in 1952, the stadium’s iconic field has been the site of amazing moments, including six national football championships, and has been the location of countless memories for the Blue Hen faithful. In 2020, UD completed a stadium renovation with upgraded seating and new club spaces for an enhanced fan experience and a state-of-the-art press box.

The recent facility upgrades will hopefully pay dividends in the standings. Head football coach Danny Rocco commended the new building to UDReview.com for many reasons. Along with “enthusiasm and excitement” from his players, Rocco believes it is important to the growth of the football team.

“[The football program is] certainly looking forward to showcasing it in recruiting,” Rocco said to UDReview.com. “I think that’s the next step in the evolution of our program.”

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Rocco also expressed gratitude for the new facility, as it gave his team the opportunity for a change of scenery. Along with the unorthodox spring football season, the Whitney Athletic Center gives the football program a breath of fresh air during the ongoing pandemic.

“As we’re dealing with this pandemic, it’s a blessing to be able to walk into a new environment, see a new beginning and have a fresh start,” Rocco said.

To read the full story from the University of Delaware Review, click here.