Final Events Planned Ahead Of Demolition Of New Trier's Gates Gym

WINNETKA, IL — Built in 1928, New Trier High School's Gates Gymnasium is next month set to hold its final events before being demolished as part of a renovation of the school's Winnetka campus.

Groundbreaking on the gym's replacement is due to get underway next month, but before construction gets underway, school officials have planned a series of events dubbed, "A December to Remember."

The $75 million plan to replace the gym and a 1925-built boiler plant — described by district staff as "inflexible spaces with high maintenance costs" that fail to meet the needs of students — was approved in February following more than a year of study.

Set to be complete by the start of the end of summer 2023, the new building will incorporate some design elements from the older gym, including its barrel-shaped roof and exterior brickwork.

In addition to a new competition gym, the project will include a six-lane indoor track, 12 more classroom spaces, additional auxiliary gyms, new strength and conditioning facilities, a climbing wall and a ropes course.

Read more: $75 Million Gym Upgrade Approved By New Trier High School Board

The "December to Remember" events begin Dec. 4 with an open house and commemoration event scheduled for noon ahead of a girls varsity basketball game at 12:30 p.m.

Alumni and guests are invited to tour the campus and view drawings of the new construction. A special commemorative giveaway is planned, and light refreshments and spirit wear will be available.

On Dec. 12, the New Trier Music Department is holding its annual winter concert, a tradition since 1918, at Gates Gym for a final time. Capacity might be limited to performers and their families, according to district staff, but the event will be streamed live online.

On Dec. 16, the New Trier Athletic Department will induct a new class of members to its Hall of Honor for the third time. Ben Almaguer (1928-1991), the "Father of NT Cross Country;" longtime girls golf coach Gary Groh (1948-2015); Hall of Fame baseball coach Ron Klein and Deborah Ofcky, former assistant athletic director and badminton coach, are set to be recognized for their significant contributions to New Trier Athletics.

The trio of inductees will be recognized. during alumni night at Gates Gym between the 5:45 p.m. girls varsity basketball game and the 7:30 p.m. boys varsity games against Evanston Township High School, which will the last official games played at the gym.