This petition has been created in direct response to the recent decision made by Rollins Athletics to transition the Daryl Fitness Center in the Alfond Gym to a student-athlete-only space effective January 2024.

The proposed changes to the Daryl Fitness Center within the Alfond Gym not only jeopardize the promotion of health and wellness on the Rollins College campus but also forge an environment of inaccessibility, undermining the well-being of non-athlete Rollins students. We acknowledge the Daryl Fitness Center's vital role as a resource for non-student-athletes campus-wide. If Rollins College Athletics proceeds with these changes, it will pose a significant threat to the accessibility of health and wellness resources for all students. The following issues are of concern:

1. Space deficiency in Lakeside Gym

The Lakeside Gym is already overcrowded on a consistent basis and is used by both athletes and non-athletes. The equipment upgrades promised for the Lakeside Gym by Rollins Athletics will not mitigate the space deficiency in Lakeside and the overhaul of students interested in utilizing on-campus fitness facilities. 

2. Accessibility concerns

By reducing available workout space, Rollins College Athletics risks creating an environment that is inaccessible to non-student athletes. Without access to both fitness facilities on-campus, non-student-athletes will be forced to work out in increasingly overcrowded spaces or search for off-campus alternatives that are not only expensive but inaccessible for many students who do not have access to their own means of transportation. 

To adhere to the goals of Rollins as an institution, preserving the non-student-athletes ability to access these resources is incredibly important and fosters an inclusive environment that promotes physical health and well-being among our diverse student body.

By signing this petition, you are supporting not only current students but also future generations who will benefit from having access to these facilities.