By Sarah Leskovec

Update, November 3, 2014: The deadline to submit applications for a 2015 NIRSA Outstanding Sports Facilities Award has been extended to 5:00pm Pacific Time on Friday, November 7.

Recreation facilities play an integral role in how students participate in collegiate rec. Innovative designs significantly improve visitors’ experiences and contribute to their developing lifelong habits of health and wellness.

Every year, NIRSA recognizes exceptional NIRSA member institution facilities with the Outstanding Sports Facilities Awards.

These awards acknowledge the cutting edge designs of new, renovated, or expanded collegiate rec facilities.

They honor facilities that demonstrate excellence in a number of critical areas, which include architectural design, functionality, and how well the facility meets its intended purpose.

Rec facilities are important student recruiting tools, and they create places of community on campuses.

Award recipients are regarded as examples to follow within the profession and throughout the greater architectural and facilities construction communities.

Celebrate your facility construction or renovation by submitting an application for a NIRSA Outstanding Sports Facilities Award! Your facility could be recognized at the 2015 NIRSA Annual Conference & Recreational Sports Expo in Grapevine, Texas from March 30–April 2.

Eligibility and selection criteria, and a list of past recipients, are available on the NIRSA website. Applications are due Monday, November 3—submit one today!