Steve Tisch Sports and Fitness Center

Steve Tisch Sports and Fitness Center. The Steve Tisch Sports and Fitness Center is a major recreational and athletic facility on the campus of the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Opened in 2013, it serves as a primary hub for student wellness, intramural sports, and club athletic activities. The center is named for its principal donor, Steve Tisch, an Academy Award-winning film producer and co-owner of the New York Giants.

History

The facility was conceived as part of a broader initiative to modernize and expand recreational offerings for the growing student body at UCLA. Funded through a combination of student fees and a landmark $10 million gift from Steve Tisch, construction began in 2011. The project was managed by the University of California system and designed by the architectural firm Perkins and Will, known for other projects like the University of Texas at Dallas Student Services Building. Its opening coincided with the centennial celebration of the university's founding in 1919, marking a significant upgrade from older facilities like the John Wooden Center. The dedication ceremony was attended by notable figures including then-UCLA Chancellor Gene Block and representatives from the New York Giants organization.

Facilities

The 115,000-square-foot structure features three primary levels dedicated to diverse fitness and recreational needs. Key amenities include a large multi-activity court for sports such as basketball and volleyball, an expansive cardio and strength training area equipped with Life Fitness and Hammer Strength machinery, and dedicated spaces for group exercise classes including yoga, Pilates, and indoor cycling. The center also houses administrative offices for UCLA Recreation, locker rooms, and a wellness lounge. Its design emphasizes sustainability, incorporating elements that align with LEED certification standards, similar to other campus buildings like the UCLA Luskin Conference Center. The facility connects seamlessly to the existing John Wooden Center, creating an integrated recreational complex.

Athletics and programs

While not a venue for UCLA Bruins NCAA varsity competitions, the center is vital for the university's extensive intramural and club sports ecosystem. It hosts leagues and tournaments for sports like futsal, badminton, and dodgeball. The UCLA Club Sports program, featuring teams that compete in the National Club Baseball Association and USA Rugby, utilizes the facility for training and administrative functions. UCLA Recreation staff coordinate instructional programs, including personal training and wellness workshops, often in collaboration with the UCLA Arthur Ashe Student Health and Wellness Center. The building also supports special events like the UCLA Unicamp charity fundraisers and fitness challenges modeled after the CrossFit Games.

Management and operations

Daily operations are overseen by UCLA Recreation, a department within the university's Division of Student Affairs. The facility employs a mix of professional staff, including directors from the National Intramural-Recreational Sports Association, and a large cohort of student workers. Funding is derived from student membership fees, which are included in tuition, and operational support from the University of California Office of the President. Safety and protocols are coordinated with the UCLA Police Department and align with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Maintenance and capital improvements are managed in conjunction with the UCLA Capital Programs office.

In popular culture

The modern architecture and iconic UCLA setting have made the center a recognizable filming location. It has appeared in television series such as *Glee* and *The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air* revival specials, as well as in music videos for artists like Katy Perry and The Black Eyed Peas. The facility is also featured in promotional materials for the NCAA Football video game series and in documentaries about the Pac-12 Conference. Its namesake, Steve Tisch, has been profiled in connection with the center in publications like *The Hollywood Reporter* and *Sports Illustrated*, often highlighting his dual legacy in Los Angeles entertainment and National Football League ownership.

Category:University of California, Los Angeles Category:Sports venues in Los Angeles Category:Buildings and structures completed in 2013