Purnell Swett High School opens $5.5M athletic facility

November 19, 2025 / Athletic Administration • Facilities

Purnell Swett High School in North Carolina recently celebrated the opening of its new $5.5 million multipurpose athletic facility, highlighted by a cutting-edge weight room that promises to transform training for student-athletes across all sports.

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Construction began in February 2024, with teams moving in just over a year later in May 2025. For head football coach and PE teacher Joshua Deese, a 2002 Purnell Swett graduate, the difference is night and day. “Our old weight room was about 30 by 20 feet with just five racks. On heavy squat days, it was unsafe and overcrowded,” Deese said. “Now, we have space, equipment, and technology that allows us to train the whole program at once.”

purnell swett

The expansive new space features a 25-yard turf field, eight double-sided racks, cable machines, medicine balls, jammer arms, and retractable batting cages, making it truly multipurpose. Cardio equipment, separate locker rooms, and an athletic training room further enhance its versatility. William Strength of Columbia, South Carolina, outfitted the facility, including the turf and strength equipment.

purnell swett

Technology also plays a role. With smart boards, integrated speakers, and the RackCoach platform displaying sets, reps, and workout intensity, efficiency has improved dramatically. Athletes report noticeable gains in strength, endurance, and camaraderie since training together in one unified space.

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“This facility isn’t just for football — it’s for every sport,” Deese said. “It’s already brought our athletes closer together, and I can’t wait to see the progress after a full offseason here.”