News release: Support For Sport

Abstract

Preston North End FC Manager To Open University Sports Centre
Craig Brown, manager of Preston North End FC, will officially open the University of
Central Lancashire's (UCLan) newly refurbished Foster Sports Centre on Thursday, 5
February 2004.
The new facilities, which cost over £500,000 and took 7 months to complete,
incorporate a new studio for health and fitness classes, martial arts and fencing. An
extended weights room with over £90,000 of new equipment has also been opened
along with new showers and changing room facilities. The upgrade has been
completed with the incorporation of new offices, a reception area and a viewing
gallery overlooking the main hall.
Graham Baldwin, Dean of Academic Innovation, commented: "Sport has long been a
major area of development here at the University and now facilities, services and
academic courses are being fused together under the one umbrella of 'Sport
@ UCLan'. Our aim is to develop the University and Preston as a major centre for
sporting achievement in academic, social and professional spheres."
Martin Baines, Sports Centre Manager, said: "These are fantastic new facilities so
we're delighted that Craig has agreed to give them his seal of approval. From step
classes, yoga and circuit training to volleyball, tennis and Kung Fu we' ll be providing
something for everyone."
During the opening ceremony, Honorary fellows and former staff and students will be
given a guided tour of the new facilities where a number of demonstrations will take
place in sports such as basketball, aerobics and martial arts.
Note to Editor
A photo of Craig Brown testing some of the new fitness equipment under the watchful
eye of UCLan Honorary Fellow, Jimmy Armfield and/or Martin Baines, Sports
Centre Manager, will take place at 3.50pm prompt on Thursday, 5 February in the
Foster Sports Centre, (off Adelphi Roundabout).