From the Archives: Updating Our Athletic and Physical Education Facilities
The evolution of Friends Select’s athletic and physical education facilities mirrors the school’s growth over time. |
By continually adapting and evolving its facilities to meet the changing needs of its students, the school underscores its commitments to physical education and student wellness as integral components of its mission. |
In the early days, the gymnasium was located on the fourth floor of the “old school” building and featured a suspended track over the basketball courts. As the community eagerly anticipated the construction of the Parkway Building—the “new school”—Friends Select navigated logistic challenges in the shared spaces of the Central YMCA, such as scheduling gym and pool usage in the building.
With the completion of the Parkway Building, Friends Select introduced two standout features: an architecturally remarkable athletic field on the rooftop and a 25-yard indoor swimming pool. The rooftop field provides opportunities not only for athletics and physical education but also for free play, serving as a location for recess and student free time. Similarly, the pool supports the swim team and Aquatics club, and is a vital component of physical education programming. These facilities have expanded possibilities for Friends Select students, faculty, and staff and are unique attractions for visiting teams and prospective families. They have also served as rental spaces for organizations looking to host events and social gatherings when school is not in session. And the pool has provided a much-needed facility for lifeguard training as part of Friends Select’s partnership with Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, helping to alleviate the city’s lifeguard shortage.
Most recently, the Parkway Building gymnasium has undergone renovations to incorporate state-of-the-art features that align with the success of the school’s athletic programs and the needs of its growing community. These modern advancements ensure that current and future students have access to spaces that inspire excellence both on and off the court.
- Dick Hoffman, Friends Select archivist
