In a recent meeting of the Senate Appropriations - Education and Environment Division, discussions centered around the growing need for athletic facilities in North Dakota, particularly in Devil's Lake. The conversation highlighted the successful launch of men's and women's hockey programs in 2023, which, despite being non-scholarship, have attracted around 40 full-time students who might not have enrolled otherwise. This initiative reflects a broader trend in K-12 schools across the state, where eSports programs are also gaining traction.

However, the lack of dedicated athletic facilities poses a significant challenge for the community. Currently, all games are held in rented or borrowed spaces from local schools and parks, making it difficult to compete with other institutions in the state for recruiting athletes. To address this issue, the institution is embarking on a fundraising campaign aimed at constructing a new facility that would serve multiple sports, including basketball, baseball, and softball, with future plans for a hockey rink.

The proposed facility is projected to cost around $17 million, with additional funds needed for the hockey rink, estimated at another $17 to $20 million. The community's involvement is crucial, as local leaders expressed hope that residents would step up to support the fundraising efforts. The new facility is not only seen as a means to enhance athletic programs but also as a venue for hosting community events, tournaments, and career fairs, filling a significant gap in local infrastructure.

As the conversation unfolded, it became clear that the development of these facilities is not just about sports; it represents an investment in the community's future, fostering engagement and providing essential resources for both students and residents alike. The call for support resonates beyond the walls of the meeting, inviting the community to rally together for a shared vision of growth and opportunity.