Historic Gift Enables Adams Center Auxiliary Gym Renovation

The University of Montana, thanks to the generosity of a $1 million gift from Steve and Shirley Nelson, will begin renovations on the east and west auxiliary gyms inside Dahlberg Arena this March.

The project will create additional training and practice spaces for men's basketball, women's basketball, and women's volleyball. The renovation includes new hardwood floors, scoreboards, shot clocks, practice baskets, air conditioning, and a paint and graphics package.

Steve Nelson, a 1970 graduate of the University of Montana and veteran of the US Army, and his wife Shirley moved back to Missoula in 1980 and have been staunch supporters of Grizzly Athletics for many years.

His connection with UM has remained strong and had a great impact on his life. Now, Nelson is giving back to his alma mater in a big way with the first gift of digital currency in UM/UM Foundation history.

"The network of friends & associates from the University were instrumental in forming my character and my desire to be successful," Steve said. "The education I received from the University far exceeded my expectations regarding interpersonal relationships, networking, and just learning to deal with systems, professors & people in general."

The gift will allow for upgrades to the facility, and it will also allow all three of Montana's indoor court sports to practice at the same time. The renovations will also bring value by adding space for hosting high school and youth tournaments, and many other events.

Head volleyball coach Allison Lawrence outlined the impact that the new space will have on the success of her program and the student-athletes at Montana.

"This gift will allow for much needed space and scheduling freedom for our court sports to train," Lawrence said. "Our athletes have very demanding schedules, and the WAG/EAG renovation will allow for more flexibility for scheduling between teams, and more open space for the extra reps that are key in every athlete's commitment to growth and greatness. Space and time are priceless resources, and this gift is a gamechanger in our pursuit of greatness as a department."

Lady Griz head coach Nate Harris also commented on how the redone venues will be a great addition for his program and UM as a whole.

"We are so grateful to Steve and Shirley Nelson for this gift and their commitment to Grizzly Athletics," Harris said. "These renovations will have a significant impact on our student-athletes by providing a top-of-the-line practice facility for the Lady Griz and all of our court sports at UM."

The gift from the Nelson family will impact Grizzly student-athletes for many years to come and leave a lasting legacy at the University of Montana.

"I am proud and honored to be able to help the Athletic Department and help Steve leave a legacy we can all be proud of," Shirley Nelson said.

"The University has played a meaningful role in my life and & the life of our community," Steve Nelson said. "I'm grateful for the chance to support the Athletic Department and contribute to a legacy of excellence, teamwork, and inspiration for current and future Griz. Go Griz!"

University of Montana Athletics

Historic Gift Enables Adams Center Auxiliary Gym Renovation

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