Hemlock Public School District is proud to share a construction progress update on the Patrick Wolgast Fieldhouse, a transformative wellness and athletics project designed to expand year-round opportunities for students and the broader community.
Since breaking ground, visible progress has accelerated, with structural steel rising, exterior systems advancing, and interior work beginning to take shape. Recent on-site activity reflects the steady momentum behind a facility that will serve as a hub for health, fitness, training, and community connection.
“This project represents the best of Hemlock—community generosity, thoughtful stewardship, and a clear commitment to the whole child,” said Board President Matt Wesener. “We are grateful for the partners and donors who have made this possible, and especially to the Wolgast Family for allowing us to honor Patrick’s legacy in a way that will serve students for generations.”
The Patrick Wolgast Fieldhouse is being supported through a $1,000,000 Federal Community Project Funding grant and generous private donations, with final federal authorization to proceed having been received in late March 2025. (Hemlock Public School District) The project contractor, selected through a competitive process approved by the Board of Education, is Pumford Construction. (Hemlock Public School District)
When completed, the Fieldhouse will include approximately 8,000 square feet of open activity space and 2,000 square feet of additional functional space supporting amenities such as restrooms and specialized training features. (Google Sites) The Fieldhouse is a privately funded, collaborative effort that has also welcomed monetary and in-kind support from community partners. (Google Sites)
The district is also grateful for builder in-kind donations from Pumford Construction, reflecting a shared commitment to maximizing resources and delivering the greatest possible impact for students and families.
Construction remains on track for an early 2026 completion timeline. (Hemlock Public School District). A student-athlete echoed the excitement students feel as the facility becomes a reality: “We’ve always had to work around seasons and space,” said a Hemlock student-athlete. “Seeing the Fieldhouse go up is amazing. It’s going to change how we train, how we stay healthy, and how we build team culture all year long.”
The district will continue to share updates as interior buildout progresses and final features are installed. Community members interested in supporting the Fieldhouse through remaining philanthropic or in-kind opportunities can learn more through the project information page. (Google Sites)
Superintendent Dr. Don Killingbeck added, “The Patrick Wolgast Fieldhouse is about more than athletics—it’s about creating a healthier, stronger future for our kids and our community. We are thankful for the federal support that helped move this from vision to reality, and for the private donors and in-kind partners who continue to pull the sled with us. Most importantly, we thank the Patrick Wolgast Family for their trust, partnership, and love for this community.” (Hemlock Public School District)