PRESS RELEASE: Hingham Sports Partnership Leads Fundraising Effort for New Fitness and Wellness Facility at Hingham High School

October 3, 2022- Hingham, MA:

Hingham Sports Partnership (HSP), a nonprofit organization committed to supporting and advocating for youth and high school sports, has launched a $1.5MM fundraising campaign to create “The Dock,” a new fitness and wellness facility at Hingham High School.

The Dock project aims to transform the old high school concession building near the track area into a code compliant state-of-the-art fitness and wellness facility that will be accessible to all high school students.

“The existing weight room is primarily used by boys' sports teams and is dated, uninviting to female students and has poor ventilation and no windows. The time has come for a larger and more modern facility for fitness and wellness activities at HHS. HSP would like to rally the community to make The Dock a reality” says Deb McCarthy, HSP president.

The new proposed 2,500 sq ft modern center at HHS will encompass fitness, wellness, exercise, and additional programming, potentially before, during and after school time. It will replace an existing storage/maintenance facility adjacent to the track in the rear parking lot.

“Just as Harbormen and Harborwomen are welcomed at their docks when they arrive home from the sea, we envision “The Dock” to be a place for all students-- regardless of age, gender, physical or intellectual capability or participation on sports teams-- to gather and feel welcome while they enhance their health, fitness, and wellness,” says McCarthy.

The town has many current projects underway, as well as a long list for thoughtful future consideration. In light of the many competing priorities, the HSP Board voted to move forward with a capital campaign to fund this project through philanthropy. 

Hingham Sports Partnership has experience in fundraising for large capital campaigns like The Dock. Nearly 10 years ago, the HSP board coordinated a significant fundraising campaign, and was also the lead financial donor for the renovated high school athletic complex that many athletes and spectators alike enjoy today.

“The HHS community is excited about this project. We’re all aware that physical activity can play a key role in mental health and wellness. The Dock project is happening at an opportune time as we expand new electives to address and benefit students’ mental health and wellness,” says Rick Swanson, HHS principal. “This facility would give us better space to host these new electives, such as yoga and more. Now more than ever, we need to find ways to improve the everyday wellbeing of students, faculty, and the community.”

Ask a board member and stayed tuned to learn more.