Stony Brook’s Department of Athletics is planning a new strength and conditioning facility, made possible by a $4.3M donation from philanthropist Glenn Dubin and his wife.  This is a generous donation, but it is unfortunate that the current plans apparently involve demolishing the existing six squash courts to make way for the new facility.

The present squash courts and lounge were constructed as part of the West Wing expansion of the Sport Complex around 1990.  They were, themselves, made possible by a gift from Stuart Goldstein, a Stony Brook alumnus who was winner of the World Professional Squash Championship in 1978, and arguably one of the best athletes ever from Stony Brook.  These six courts represent a unique asset for the University and community:

* They are in very good condition, and available all-year round.
* They are very well used, mainly during the evening hours, with players often queuing for their turn to play.
* Proposed conversion of one or two racquet-ball courts to squash would only perpetuate the problem.
* There are only a very small number of other squash courts in all of Suffolk County.
* The existing glass-backed courts, with balconies & lounge, should be a pride and joy of SBU.
* The game of squash itself provides one of the best cardiovascular workouts of any sport.
* The squash lounge is used as practice for dancing, martial arts, catered receptions and other functions.

There has been very little consultation with the faculty, staff, student  and local communities concerning the impending demolition of the squash courts.  As enthusiastic squash players, we urge the University to reconsider its plans, permitting both the new facility and the existing squash facility to flourish together.

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