From our friends at GW Promos...
George Washington University Reveals New Court at Charles E. Smith Center
Iconic Imagery Punctuates School's Setting in Heart of the Nation's Capital
The George Washington University Department of Athletics and Recreation revealed on Tuesday the main floor at the Charles E. Smith Center on which GW's men's basketball, women's basketball and volleyball teams compete.
The floor design, which includes images of The White House flanked by the United States Capitol and the Washington Monument, served as a rallying point for the George Washington community when renderings were unveiled to rave reviews in May following the university's Commencement ceremonies on the National Mall.
"When people around the world are watching our games, we want them to immediately recognize and understand the university's unique setting in the middle of the action in this world-class city," noted Director of Athletics and Recreation Patrick Nero.
The distinctive design pays tribute to three iconic structures that are near and dear both to Washington, DC and to the George Washington community.
"I was born and raised in the Capital region, so this city is special to me," added men's basketball Head Coach Mike Lonergan. "This court has added meaning as I have spent the majority of my life in our nation's capital first as a student then as coach. We will play with great pride on this new floor."
"When I talk to our student-athletes and prospective student-athletes, one thing I always highlight is the opportunity to compete and to learn in a city and at a university that makes history every day," said women's basketball Head Coach Jonathan Tsipis. "Having the opportunity to play in the shadows of our national monuments is incredibly special, and now taking the floor on a court that portrays our historic setting will be rewarding to our players, coaches and fans alike."
"One reason this university is so great is because of our location and the history of DC," identified volleyball Head Coach Amanda Ault. "This stunning design highlights our sense of pride, not only about GW but the Washington, DC community as a whole. Our team is honored and excited to be the first to compete on it next month."
The George Washington University was created in 1821 through an Act of Congress, fulfilling George Washington's vision of an institution in the nation's capital dedicated to educating and preparing future leaders.
