With the sun peeking its way out and the lack of available basketball courts on Hawk Hill due to renovations, students were getting frustrated by the limited space on campus to play the game they love. 

Fortunately, with St. Joe’s recent partnership with Samuel Gompers Elementary School, from Monday to Thursday, 5 p.m. to dusk, students can enjoy hooping all they want. Located just beside The Perch and Bellarmine Hall, the short-distance walk is convenient for students wanting to play basketball. The St. Joe’s recreation department worked with contacts at the Gompers School to arrange the partnership.

This new outlet and opportunity for students to play outside is a decision that does not go unnoticed by many basketball lovers or anyone who wants to play a quick game in general. 

“I feel a lot better,” said Jack Potpinko ’26. “I was going crazy because I couldn’t play basketball anywhere.”

William Hayes ’26, took a break from playing at the courts to talk about how grateful he was to have the opportunity to play at Samuel Gompers Elementary.

“I plan to come almost every day now since the weather is getting nice,” Hayes said.

For many students, the renovation of the O’Pake Recreation Center left people hopeless for courts they could use to play. 

The ​​assistant athletics director for Campus Recreation, Alexandra Kissinger ’20, M.S., said she was happy with the successful outcome and feedback.

“I’m excited about this partnership because it’s a great way for students to meet new people and get outside,” Kissinger said. “There have been students that shoot around on their own, hop into pick-up games, etcetera, so I’m happy with the outcome thus far.” 

This partnership has sparked a new light, especially for many athletes on campus who do not have access to any court nearby. All students who are eager to play the game they love need to do, is bring their St. Joe’s I.D. and have fun.