University of Northern Colorado Athletics
The Empower Center, inaugurated in February 2022, is the University of Northern Colorado’s state-of-the-art sports performance facility, designed to enhance the training experience for over 400 student-athletes. Spanning 10,250 square feet—more than double the size of the previous weight room—the center represents UNC’s first fully donor-funded building, with a total investment of $4 million.
Strategically located just south of the football practice fields, the Empower Center features a spacious weight room equipped with 15 weight racks, expanded free weights, designated areas for warm-up and rehabilitation, and a med ball wall. High ceilings accommodate taller athletes, allowing for unrestricted overhead movements. Additional amenities include indoor/outdoor access via garage doors, offices for strength coaches, and a nutrition station to support athlete wellness.
The establishment of the Empower Center was made possible through the generosity of numerous donors, including lead contributors John ’84 and Angela ’89 Schmidt. Their support has empowered UNC Athletics to continue its momentum in Division I with this world-class strength and training facility.
The Empower Center stands as a testament to the university’s commitment to building champions for life, providing student-athletes with the resources they need to excel both on and off the field.
