The first floor of Kuch flooded with water and mud, and everyone was evacuated safely, thanks to the quick work of the construction workers on site, the Athletics Department staff, and Future Stars team leaders.

“I looked out at the gym and it was like a lake,” says Erin Livingston, head coach of field hockey and women’s lacrosse, whose office is located along the wall of Kuch. “I guess that’s the definition of a flash flood.”

As water poured into Kuch, construction workers acted quickly to divert the water out the loading dock, a move that kept the water from reaching the swimming pool. Much of the water exited the building as the front doors were held open, cascading down the several flights of steps in front of the building and into the parking lot. Athletic Director Shirley Liddle reports hearing a loud crack and then seeing the foot-high wall of water rush through the building.

Associate Vice President for Facilities and Capital Management Tom Macchi reports that construction crews had the retaining door replaced within minutes, and clean-up crews are already at work on the remaining mud and water.

“Kuch will be closed until cleaning can be accomplished and assessment of equipment can be done. Information will be posted as soon as possible on status of use of the facility,” notes Liddle. “Thank you for your patience and understanding.”