FLAMES Ready for GPAC

The start of the fall sports calendar officially launches the College of Saint Mary Flames athletic program into the Great Plains Athletic Conference (GPAC). The Flames joined the 12-institution GPAC league last October.

“Joining the GPAC offers a tremendous opportunity for our student athletes,” said College of Saint Mary Athletic Director Jim Krueger. “The conference provides top-level quality competition week-in and week-out for our teams. It also positions our coaches to attract and recruit stronger athletes throughout the region. We’re much more visible as a GPAC member.”

Stepping into the GPAC required changes to current processes and facilities. The University restructured its athletic scholarship program to be more competitive with peer institutions, and adjusted game and travel schedules to meet GPAC standards and structure.

The Lied Fitness Center gym floor also received a major facelift. For the first time in 11 years, contractors stripped, sanded, repainted and sealed the floor. The design includes the addition of the GPAC logo along with more prominent National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and Flames logos.

The gym hosts CSM volleyball and basketball games and several outside groups including club sports and local high school teams.

View the gallery of photos of the Lied Fitness Center Gym Floor.