HAMBURG , N.Y. – Installation of a new high-quality 11,000-square-foot gymnasium floor has been completed in Hilbert College’s Hafner Recreation Center, a project which will provide a safer, more comfortable playing surface for student-athletes and recreational users.

The floor surface, adorned with the college’s Hawks logo, is being put to immediate use by more than 500 area boys and girls participating this summer in the Hilbert Hawks Basketball Camps.

“Playing on a wooden floor surface is easier on the body and joints so we expect there to be fewer injuries among student-athletes and recreational users who will be playing on the surface,” said Richard Walsh, Hilbert’s director of athletics. “The floor complements other improvements at the Hafner Recreation Center, including a modernized weight and fitness center that broadened our on-campus exercise facilities.”

Walsh added that “the new surface, which is much easier to maintain than the original floor, will assist with Hilbert’s student recruiting efforts as its quality and aesthetic appeal gives us more credibility.”

The Robbins Floor System replaces the original surface installed at the time the Hafner Recreation Center opened in 1979. Wood valued at $33,000 installed in the floor was donated by Baillie Lumber Co.