New, eight-court hoverter tennis complex dedicated

The new Hoverter Tennis Complex on campus was formally dedicated during noontime ceremonies Thursday, Aug. 31.

The Lawrence L. and Julia Z. Hoverter Charitable Foundation presented one of the largest gifts in Penn State Harrisburg's 40-year history to fund the new complex and create a Trustee Matching Scholarship. Two of the foundation's board members, Dr. Joseph Cecere and Mrs. Becky Cecere, have close ties to the college. Dr. Cecere is a long-time faculty member and chair of the Structural Design and Construction Engineering Technology program. His wife, the grand-niece of Julia Zeiders Hoverter, is a professional tennis instructor and new coach at Penn State Harriburg.

"The Ceceres recognized the need for expanded athletic facilities as the college became a complete four-year institution in 2004," said Chancellor Madlyn Hanes. "They wanted the college to once again offer an intercollegiate tennis program as well as provide this lifetime physical education sport."

The eight-court tennis complex was constructed south of the Capital Union Building and indoor aquatics center and adjacent to the soccer field. Brick entry walls line the complex and a walkway connects the courts with the Capital Union Building and parking lot.

Chancellor Hanes called the new complex a strong statement to the college's commitment to intercollegiate sports and credited the facility with being an important factor in the college's recent acceptance into the North Eastern Athletic Conference.

Others taking part in the dedication ceremonies were: Ronald Katzman, also representing the Hoverter Foundation; Athletic Director Rahsaan Carlton; James Byerly, representing the college Board of Advisers; and Fred Sembach, representing the Alumni Society.

Lobar Associates, Inc. of Dillsburg is the general contractor for the tennis complex; the architect is Stephen Parks and Associates of Hollidaysburg.

The first intercollegiate tennis match on the new courts was held on Saturday, Sept. 16. The tennis season continues through October.