In early February, Bolles broke ground on the new Hunt soccer complex. The project is set to be finished in around 12 to 14 months.
The new complex is going to be a huge upgrade from the current facilities that the soccer team uses, according to mens head coach Dr. Jim Lieb. “We have needed a dedicated facility for soccer for a long time. The boys have never had a place to gather to really change.”
The new complex will provide important benefits to students. “It will give a dedicated space for the players to gather before training and before games, where we can have pregame meetings where we can talk about our tactics going into the match,” Lieb said. “The fact that it is located next to the field means they do not have to come to my classroom and instead go straight to the locker room.”
Bolles Athletic Director Rock Pillsbury also said that the proximity to the field is an advantage to the players so they can get out onto the field.
Bolles’ vision for the future is closely tied to developments like the soccer complex. “The Hunt soccer complex will not only provide needed locker room and meeting space for our student-athletes, but also enhance the aesthetic of our campus and help provide a welcoming environment for all who utilize our facilities,” said Head of School Tyler Hodges.
School leaders believe these investments play a role in attracting prospective students. The mission of the school is to include a dedication to caring for the mind, soul, and body. Having the facilities and resources available are crucial to those efforts. Having the right amount of space to allow for as many sports as possible is also key.
“These facilities, along with great coaches and a culture of pursuing excellence, help attract families to consider Bolles,” said Hodges.
Many in the Bolles community wonder how the administration comes up with ideas and how funding is attained for infrastructure projects. Hodges explains that there are many different factors in coming up with projects, which include strategic planning, specific needs, and interest within the community.
“Some projects are part of a larger campus master plan for development, while others are passion projects for generous donors. In both cases, the goal is the same: to make the Bolles experience best in class,” said Hodges.
The planning and execution of new buildings reflects a broad approach with input from many people. “New buildings and facility enhancements are a team effort,” said Hodges. Projects come from the advancement office, the operations team, the finance office, the marketing team, and trustees. Hodges explained that there is also involvement from other leaders, faculty, and staff around the campus.
Despite the significant upgrades around campus, such as the Jones Baseball Complex and the Hunt soccer complex, school officials note that planning for future improvements is already in progress.
“Bolles is a dynamic school, as are our efforts to fulfill our mission. We continually evaluate our facility and programmatic needs and, in fact, are in the process of solidifying our next strategic plan that will guide our school through the next chapter of growth, innovation, and impact,” said Hodges. There are more exciting projects coming to the school that will be announced in the coming months.
