MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. -- Cherry Point’s Semper Fit Athletics held an eight-team three on three basketball tournament for Marines to display their best cross-overs, jump shots and fadeaways at the newly renovated Marine Dome, June 7. The basketball tournament was the first sports event in the Marine Dome since it reopened to the public, June 3.
After the renovation, the dome, originally constructed in the 1940s, still has its old school, basketball-fieldhouse charm. It’s equipped with newly installed glossy hardwood floors that give the gym an up-to-date playing surface to match the refurbished locker rooms, bathrooms and staff offices.
“The old floor was dug down 18 inches and all existing dirt and asphalt was removed to be replaced by sand, allowing moisture to drain,” explained Gil D. George, the assistant athletic director of Semper Fit Athletics. “Safety was an issue when it was humid outside with a lot of condensation on the floor, making people slip.”
George said central air-conditioning was also installed, making the offices a more comfortable work space. The men and women’s locker rooms are more spacious with larger saunas as well.
Pointing up to the dome’s rafters, George said, “The new scoreboards and electronic marquee finished up the overhaul.”
He added a possibility of a new gazebo and exterior paint job still to come.
“The facilities look great,” said Maj. Bill Schutz, the executive officer of Marine Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron 3, and member of team VMAQ-3 in the three on three basketball tournament. “Anything allowing the Marines to stay active and get some entertainment outside of work is great.”
July 16-23, the Marine Dome will host the All-Marine East Coast Regional Basketball Tournament. For more information about upcoming events or programs available at the Marine Dome, call the sports information line at 466-6214.