Volleyballs were flying under the clear blue skies at STU Thursday afternoon after a special dedication and blessing by President Monsignor Franklyn Casale officially opening the courts to players and students.
The newly named Dominick Miniaci Beach Volleyball Courts feature three regulation-size beach volleyball courts, located just to the west of the Fernandez Family Center. The courts meet Olympic, professional and college specifications, allowing STU the ability to host sanctioned events. The Gerritts family donated one court and Gerritts Construction was responsible for the construction of the entire facility. One of the courts was also made possible thanks to a donation by the Nowaczyk family.
STU will field a women’s beach volleyball team using the Dominick Miniaci Beach Volleyball Courts as its home. The team will begin play in two tournaments this season and is planning a full schedule for the Spring of 2017 which will include the hosting of tournaments at the Dominick Miniaci Beach Volleyball Courts.
The Beach Volleyball players in attendance included St. Thomas University alumna Adriana Montilla, AVP Tour player and international games gold medalist Bonnie Levin, Mexican national player Cynthia Aceves, former Cal State and UNLV standout Leah Maurer, top junior player Mazarine Tsuji, and fitness pro and upcoming South Beach talent Stacia Pape.
Following the exhibition, the courts were open to the St. Thomas University student body for free play, followed by a faculty/staff vs. students game.
