In the heart of the University of North Dakota, a transformation unfolded. One of the most prestigious hockey arenas in the nation, The Ralph Engelstad Arena, received a complete overhaul. The arena, known for its legacy and spirit, underwent a change that would further its reputation as a premier destination for athletes and fans alike. With this commitment to excellence in mind, the renovation presented a perfect opportunity for UND to reimagine what a weight room could offer.
Mark Poolman, Human Performance Director and Athletic Trainer at UND, played a large role in determining how the new weight room would be built. Flooring, the most fundamental aspect of a weight room, was an especially important part of the renovation. Poolman was tasked with selecting a floor that would redefine the program’s standard of quality and encourage maximum athletic performance. Let’s see how he decided which surface was right for his weight room and why Mondo Valor was the ultimate choice.
The Selection Process
When Mark Poolman embarked on the meticulous journey to select the perfect flooring, it wasn’t merely about aesthetics or durability; it was about functionality and safety.
“You want traction when it gets wet.” Poolman says. “You don’t want it to slip. That was by far my number one.”
Safety was the primary concern that guided Poolman’s selection process. A variety of flooring providers were evaluated to find one that could provide optimal traction, especially when wet, to prevent slips and injuries. After testing various samples from different companies, the choice became apparent. Mondo Valor flooring stood out immediately for its exceptional traction and the quality of padding, an essential feature for absorbing the impact of weights and reducing stress on athletes’ and coaches’ bodies.
Out of all the samples Poolman tried, Mondo Valor performed best under wet conditions, ensuring athletes could train comfortably and safely. Poolman could tell Valor would enable athletes to push their limits without the fear of slipping. The padding underneath was another critical factor, offering the necessary support for coaches and athletes who would be spending long-hours standing on the surface.
“Even the small sample of what we got from the different companies, for me, it was fairly obvious which one would have the best traction when wet,” Poolman says. “Our main area here before we remodeled, when it got wet, wearing tennis shoes, it would get slippery. This floor does not.”
Mondo Valor Flooring: Science Meets Athletics
Mondo Valor flooring is engineered specifically for the rigorous demands of strength and conditioning programs. Former strength coach of over 40 years, Ethan Reeve, is now the Director of Strength and Athletic Performance for Mondo. He was there to explain the science behind the flooring and guide Poolman through the installation process. Reeve’s expertise was critical for bridging the gap between the world of strength and conditioning and sport flooring.
As athletes engage in rigorous training sessions, the design of Mondo Valor ensures that when athletes sweat, their risk of slipping is minimized. Athletes can be confident in their movements, without needing to worry about their footing when they work out. Whether it’s quick lateral movements, intense jump rope sessions, or heavy lifting, the Mondo Valor flooring accommodates all activities with unparalleled safety and durability.
While the university is renowned for its hockey program, the weight room’s renovation was envisioned with a broader perspective. The aim was to create a space that allows Poolman to safely introduce new and varied training methodologies for athletes. Valor’s design ensures that athletes can engage in diverse workout routines without hesitation, fostering confidence in their physical activities.
A Legacy of Excellence
“It’s been a lot of fun to be involved with this facility and the program for the past 30 years,” Poolman says. “The facility is a destination for a lot of hockey fans and it continues to be.”
The University of North Dakota’s weight room is more than a facility; it’s a symbol of the university’s legacy and dedication to athletic excellence. The renovation underscores the institution’s commitment to providing its athletes with the best resources to succeed. The weight room, a cornerstone of the university’s athletic program, continues to attract and inspire not only hockey players but all student-athletes committed to reaching their peak performance levels.
“It’s amazing that a small community like this can can pack this place every night,” Poolman says. “That has a lot to do with the program and and the tradition behind it, but also the facility. Ralph Engelstad wanted to do this for a reason, and wanted it to be the best, and with these new renovations, it continues to be the best.”
The renovation of the Ralph Engelstad Arena, particularly the weight room, is a story of thoughtful improvement and unwavering dedication to athlete performance and safety. Mark Poolman’s choice of the cutting-edge Mondo Valor flooring exemplifies the University of North Dakota’s commitment to providing the best for its athletes. Although it may often be unrecognized, flooring makes a huge difference in the safety and comfort of athletes and coaches. The choice of Mondo Valor is a testament to the quality and continuing legacy of the Ralph Engelstad Arena, ensuring it remains a beacon of excellence and source of pride for the community.
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Details
Mondo offers extra strong and durable sports surfaces with customizable design for weightlifting areas.
