McCann Center Reopens after Campus-wide Pause
The McCann Center, finally opened in January, has encountered numerous obstacles in its first months of operation. Due to COVID-19, the McCann Center has been operating under limited capacity in adherence to social distancing guidelines. When the Marist entered a campus-wide pause on Oct. 8, the fitness center shut down for a week.
Due to the recent COVID-19 scare on the Marist campus, the McCann Center was temporarily closed for a week. Source: Greta Stuckey, ‘23
On Oct. 21, Vice President of Student Affairs Deborah DiCaprio the center reopened for modified operations at 25% capacity in compliance with New York State guidelines. The staff at McCann are also requiring that all of those inside the facility continue to practice 6-feet of social distancing. Students can schedule 45-minute appointments to visit the McCann Center. The appointments must be made through IMLeagues.com.
The classes page offers yoga, zumba and fitness facility time slots. Every student on this page has the freedom to select a class and a time up to 48 hours in advance, and only one session per day is permitted.
Jake Fitzpatrick ‘21, an avid McCann visitor, has already made several trips to the gym this semester.
“My experience with McCann so far into the semester has been overall great,” Fitzpatrick said. “Honestly, I’ve noticed changes in the gym, such as new dumbbell racks and new variations of machines, which totally enhance the decisions one would have if they were struggling to find a spot in the gym.”
But Fitzpatrick has been most impressed with the facility’s staff and their handling of social distancing guidelines.
“I feel like every time I go, there is never a lack of energy from the staff when it comes to the layout and regulations,” Fitzpatrick said. “Everyone is on top of their game and knows their role, it seems like.”
During this uncertain semester, students are taking advantage of the gym while they can. The administration hopes McCann can remain open for the remainder of the semester and believes that students have a significant role in keeping everyone on campus until Thanksgiving break.
“We want to thank the overwhelming majority of our students who continue to exhibit positive behavior during these challenging times,” DiCaprio said. “With fewer than 40 days until Thanksgiving break, we can’t stress enough how important it is for you to make good choices, stay vigilant, and follow the College’s Code of Conduct and health protocols, which include wearing a mask, maintaining social distance, and practicing good hygiene such as hand washing.”