In an instant classic game against Lynden Christian, in front of a roaring crowd, the Golden Eagles varsity volleyball squad came away with a 3-2 victory on September 8^th. But what made the night special wasn’t just the hard-fought win: this was the first ever match in FHS’ brand-new Athletic Wing, which had just opened to the public a week and a half earlier.

“It was really exciting in the new atmosphere,” said Tatum Fox, a senior on the volleyball team. “Just seeing the community come together to see the new building and support us was super cool.”

According to the team, that first win was a way of making their mark in their new arena.

“We get to claim our spot in this gym,” said senior Hannah Heinrichs. “This was our game to show everyone this is our new home.”

Brooklyn Cagle, a fellow senior on the volleyball team, said the new gym has less harsh lighting, which made it easier to effectively play.

“When you look up to see the ball, you’re not blinded anymore,” she said. “No more little black dots!”

The new gym replaces a cherished building that stood for decades – one that FHS graduates had fond memories of. But many current FHS students who are taking P.E. classes this fall praised the new Athletic Wing.

 “It’s a super big upgrade,” said senior Tre Ferry. “I know this is weird, but I like the way it smells.”

“I think the locker rooms are so much better,” said sophomore Josh Ruble.

Some students said they appreciated the larger hallways in the new gym.

“It’s more spacious, it doesn’t feel as tight,” said junior Madison Hulford.

Junior Kleaveland Atwood is already excited for the winter sports season.

“I’m looking forward to playing basketball here when the season comes around,” said Atwood, a shooting guard for FHS’ team. “The scoreboard, I feel like it’s super cool.”