MAKE USE OF MT. HOOD SPORTS FACILITIES

As we Saints begin the new academic year, there is a need to highlight for all students – new and returning alike – the opportunities present in Mt. Hood Community College’s sports and recreation facilities.

Whether you are looking to take a dip in the water or scale a towering wall, there is no need to look further than our very own campus. The MHCC sports facilities at the southern end of the main Gresham campus provide free or low-cost ways to remain fit, and to have fun.

A quarter-mile track and football field inside the Earl L. Klapstein Stadium are open to Mt. Hood students, staff and the public every day from dawn to 4:00 p.m, at zero cost – aside from scheduled events that use the stadium. Please note that bicycles, skateboards, and motorized vehicles are not allowed on the track.

There are eight tennis courts at MHCC, all of which are open from dawn until dark daily, also at zero cost. During the winter and spring, several of the tennis courts are reserved for practice time by local high school teams, but the other courts remain open to public use. In the event that all eight courts are being used by a high school team, you (as a student) may ask their coach to free up a tennis court.

The campus Aquatic Center has three different pools: a 50-meter pool, 25-meter pool, and learner pool. Several activities are offered, at varying hours.

General use of the pools is completely free for Mt. Hood students and staff, and persons under 2 years of age. Community members must pay a small fee to swim, with numerous pricing options for older children, adults, seniors, and veterans.

Additionally, swimming lessons and lifeguard training are offered for all age groups, costing up to $96 for a full course.

For information on pricing, schedules, and swim or other lessons, visit https://www.mhcc.edu/aquatics/.

The indoor rock wall at MHCC sports “2,000 square feet of climbing” and features 20 top-rope stations, two roofs, a running crack and a chimney, according to its official website. The facility is open for use from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.

Unfortunately, the rock wall is the only campus sports facility that is not free for students and staff, who must pay $6 for a day pass or $50 for a 10-punch pass in order to climb. For other community members, the prices are $8 and $72, respectively. The cost covers all necessary equipment.

For more, such as information on rock wall closures and liability rules, visit https://www.mhcc.edu/rockwall.