Holy Cross hosts gymnasium ribbon cutting

Holy Cross Catholic High School on June 25 joined with students, their families, staff, Midland and Odessa Chambers of Commerce, and supporters of the school for a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Holy Cross Gymnasium. (Courtesy Photo)

MIDLAND For two years, Holy Cross Catholic High School (HCCHS) envisioned this moment — a moment that marks the end of a project, but the beginning of a chapter in the life of the school.

On June 25, HCCHS joined with students, their families, staff, Midland and Odessa Chambers of Commerce, and supporters of the school for a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Holy Cross Gymnasium.

The gymnasium is vital for the continued growth this school will experience, a news release said. After graduating its third class in May with 14 graduates and 78 students total, HCCHS continues to increase enrollment each year, creating the necessity for this facility.

“Holy Cross has been blessed with the beautiful gymnasium to host sporting events and celebrations, and become the central meeting place for our families, students, and staff. We give God the glory and are grateful for the donors and community of believers who gifted us with their time, talents, and treasure.” says Carolyn Cantú, Holy Cross Head of School.

These patient high school students have been utilizing other gymnasiums in the area to practice, but now they have one of their own. The school plans to use this facility not only for its athletic needs, but for pep rallies, programs, assemblies, retreats and many more possibilities. The weight room has also been relocated from another area on campus to this new facility, providing all the needs for these young athletes. Holy Cross continues to grow its athletic programs, offering football, volleyball, basketball, track, cross county and baseball.

“It was important that one of our students spoke on behalf of our students, to share with our community at the ribbon cutting ceremony, giving a picture of what this gymnasium will provide for our young, start-up school. Our students are the ones who can really share best how this facility is transformational for our school and each student’s experience,” Cantú said in the release.

After the ceremony concluded, alumni students rushed to the court to break in the new basketball goals. Not only did these young athletes get to enjoy the new facility, but the Bishop of the San Angelo Diocese, Michael J. Sis, also had a hand at the new basketball goal. It was a moment in Holy Cross history that will not be forgotten anytime soon.

Lead supporter of the Holy Cross Gymnasium, Don Tomlin stated, “This is a momentous occasion for Holy Cross. We needed this facility not only for athletes, but a place where all students can come together, share in the spirit of Holy Cross, and experience the joy of community. Our hope is that this beautiful new gymnasium will help increase enrollment for our growing school. Come out and see our school. It only takes a phone call, and we will set you up with a tour so you can see the new Holy Cross Gymnasium and what a day in the life of a Crusader really looks like. You will be amazed by what you see.”

Holy Cross is now accepting applications for the ’24-’25 school year.