Overland High School Makes Waves with New Aquatic Center

Overland High School officially opened the doors to its first-ever aquatics facility on Friday, August 28, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony that drew students, staff, families, community members, alumni, city officials, and district leaders to celebrate a milestone nearly 50 years in the making. 

“Investments like this one reflect our commitment to giving every Cherry Creek student access to world-class facilities and opportunities,” said Dr. Jennifer Perry, Cherry Creek School District Interim Superintendent said. “Overland's new aquatic center is a testament to what's possible when a community comes together to support its students."

Since Overland opened in 1978, the school's swimming and diving teams practiced at nearby Utah Park. That changed this week, as people gathered to cut the ribbon on the district's first stand-alone aquatics center built to serve Overland for generations to come.

"This pool represents more than just a new building,” said Sybil Booker, Overland High School Principal. “It's an opportunity for every Overland student to grow, compete, and belong to something bigger than themselves. Our student-athletes have earned this moment, and we couldn't be more excited for what's ahead."

Following the ceremony, attendees toured the building before watching members of the swimming and diving team take the first official plunge into the new pool. The 35,000-square-foot facility built by Saunders Construction and designed by DLR Group houses an 8-lane, 25-yard, 417,000-gallon competition pool, two diving boards, locker rooms, a team room, two classrooms, and bleacher seating for more than 300 spectators. It will support Overland's swimming and diving programs and physical education classes, with community rentals available beginning in the facility's second year.