Lindbergh Center turns 20

In November 1996, the Lindbergh Center’s doors opened for the very first time and 20 years later it is still arguably one of the best high school gyms in the state.

20 years ago, Dan Johnson, District Director of Activities, helped open the Lindbergh Center. Johnson sat in on meetings, worked with contractors, engineers and architects to build the athletic facility that has been serving HHS and the Minnetonka community.

“This is one of the finest projects I have seen in my 32 years in this business, and anywhere in the nation,” Johnson said. “Students are able to have a place to be active, to become better athletes and to participate in quality programs in the finest facility around.”

HHS shares the space in the Lindbergh Center with the city of Minnetonka. Prior to building, Minnetonka wanted to build some gyms for the community and HHS was looking to expand their athletic facilities. The two decided to partner together and plan the building of the 92,000 square foot athletic center.

The Lindbergh Center hosts a wide array of events and programs, from weekend volleyball tournaments and recreational basketball to tai chi.

Joe Swenson, senior, plays recreational basketball every Friday and Saturday during the winter season.

“I love playing [basketball] at the Lindbergh Center. It’s really nice how it has so many courts so a lot of people can use it at once,” Swenson said.

The gym which can fit seven Olympic sized swimming pools is home to HHS’ locker rooms, athletic offices, weight room, equipment rooms and classrooms.

“It is nice to have such a big place to practice [basketball],” said Simon Wright, senior. “All of the boys teams and the girls teams fit.”

Almost all physical education classes are held in the Lindbergh Center, giving the students five basketball courts and two tracks to stay active.

“[Lindbergh Center] has given us updated facilities that has allow us more flexibility to grow our curriculum,” said Mr. Randy Westerham, Physical Education teacher.

In the summer of 2016, Hopkins began rebranding. The Lindbergh Center was updated and the new logo can now be found throughout the facility.

Hopkins Public Schools owns the building from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. while the City of Minnetonka owns it from 6 pm to midnight.

Lindbergh Center boasts 92,000 square feet, available for students to use for free.

“I lift there everyday during the week and it’s nice because they have a lot of racks so you can always get your main lifts done without waiting,” said Sam Oxford, senior.

Everyday, the Lindbergh Center is full of new people, activities and opportunities to become a better and healthier student.

“I have walked in these doors more than 5,000 times and I look forward to each time,” Johnson said.