Over the summer, Marist was an active construction site with renovations to modernize their ever evolving campus. Vibrant colors fill the halls and cafeteria, lighting up the school. Renovations such as the new Marist gym flooring, solar panel installation, and changes to the cafeteria walls create a brighter, more welcoming space for students.
Main Gym
This past summer Marist renovated the main gymnasium floor “because the old hardwood floor was outdated and moisture was causing the floor to bubble and become a safety issue,” said Director of Buildings and Grounds David Waterman.
The new gym floor is officially open to the public after opening ceremonies during an all-school pep rally September 5. The names of Coach Gene Nolan ’92, the late Coach Dan Garvey, and the late Paul Simmons ’11 are painted on the new floor. During the dedication ceremony, family members and one of the honorees were in attendance.
Garvey was the first boys basketball coach in Marist history and one of the first lay employees at Marist; that is a non-ordained individual who works for the church in various roles, such as in schools, parishes, or diocesan officers, but are not priests, deacons or nuns. Garvey spent 35 years coaching and teaching P.E. at Marist.
“Known for his goodness, humility, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to the community, he was known for his deep love for Marist students,” said President Larry Tucker during the school rally.
Nolan was a standout student-athlete who then continued his journey at Marist becoming the ‘all-time winningest’ basketball coach. Nolan led the RedHawks through 10, 20-win seasons and six regional championships over 18 years.
“Gene was one of the greatest coaches to wear the Marist colors… but his greatest contribution was the impact he had on his players’ lives,” said Tucker.
Simmons was a four-year member of the Marist basketball team being named captain his senior year. He received a college scholarship to continue his basketball career, when just weeks before graduation he tragically died at a school event. He was a motivation to many Marist students and faculty by embodying the Marist pillars.
“We place Paul’s name on this court not because he died here but because he lived as a leader, a friend, and a brother to all of Marist High School,” said Tucker.
Renovations took the whole summer and continued into the first few weeks of school causing sports teams to utilize the Hynes gym, MacNamera gym and The Marist Sportplex.
“The new floors feel more bouncy and the lighter floors make the gym more lively…I am looking forward to playing more home games this season,” said senior middle blocker Cassidy Cage.
Solar Panels
Over the summer, Marist started a solar project and most of the materials are already on the Marist roof. Permits are still being processed and that is why all operations have come to a halt.
“The main goal is to make Marist High School more energy efficient,” said Waterman.
Marist has a commitment to sustainability and reducing carbon emissions. These standards teach students about the importance of renewable energy and keeping our planet clean. The Marist Brothers’ Province has asked all Marist institutions to investigate the possibility of installing solar panels and switching to electric vehicles as new purchase needs arise.
Once panels are installed they will save money, give real time data for classes, and help towards a more environmentally friendly future.
“Completing this project will advance the goals of the Laudato Si’Action Plan which was developed and adopted by our school this past August, 2025,” said Moderator of the Green Team Mrs. Brigid Wolff.
In addition to lowering the cost of electricity, this moves continues Pope Francis’ mission protecting the environment.
Cafeteria
New grey and red paint fills the cafeteria, giving it a new, brighter look for the first time in a long time.
“I like the new paint job. It’s better than it was before. It adds personality,” said senior Nick Larson.
All Marist rowdies’ shirts that were previously hung in the cafeteria had to be moved to the hallways connecting to the science wing to make room for all the new murals.
