Published: October 06, 2008 11:47 pm            

CITY OF TONAWANDA: High school hosts ribbon cutting for new Miller Gym

Guy Miller had butterflies in his stomach Monday afternoon, just like he did 30 years ago when he wrestled his final match as a Tonawanda Warrior.

The gym — which is named in honor of his father, George H. Miller — looks much different now than it did then. Guy and seven other members of the Miller family joined dozens of district, city and community leaders Monday for a ribbon cutting ceremony at the gym and tennis courts.

Tonawanda recently wrapped up the bulk of a $6.6 million capital project, which included a complete makeover of both athletic facilities, as well as a new roof and several classroom improvements at the secondary complex.

“It’s a great moment for us,” Guy Miller said minutes before cutting the ribbon and entering the gym. Inside, he said, “I think it’s lovely. They got the new, but kept some of the old. It’s just nice.”

The new Miller Gym is much different from what was anticipated. Originally, the district was going to replace only the gym floor. But Tonawanda bid its roof project early and got a good price, allowing the district to save $800,000, money that was used to redo the gym and tennis courts.

“What you’re about to see...is just an awesome redo of the Miller Gym,” Assistant Superintendent Peter Michaelsen said, adding that district taxpayers “should be very proud” of the finished products.

Tonawanda School Board President Joyce Hogenkamp thanked the community for supporting the capital project. “I know you took a chance on us, wondering whether it was going to be worth the money,” she said. “It’s definitely worth the money once you see the results.”

The results include a Miller Gym that sports a brand-new maple floor, sound-absorbing ceiling tiles, energy efficient lights, and a new scoreboard and shot clocks. Windows at the top of the walls give the gym a bright, inviting feel. The bleachers are the only remnants of the old facility.

The tennis courts were completely reconstructed, and they now feature new score cards to keep track during matches. There also are more parking spaces for spectators.

Tonawanda’s student-athletes were thrilled to show off their new home courts. The varsity girls volleyball team conducted a practice after Monday’s ceremony.

Senior Amber Lingenfelter described the new digs as “breathtaking.”

The team recently played its first match in the new gym. “It was like a brand-new start to our season,” said Lingenfelter. “We felt rejuvenated.”

As a member of the girls tennis and basketball squads, junior Meghan Kossow will get to experience the best of both worlds.

“This is so exciting,” she said before stepping onto the tennis courts for a scrimmage.

“We watched the progress all summer. Finally seeing it all put together, it’s a good feeling.”

Contact reporter David J. Hill at 693-1000, ext. 115.

        

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