![New seating along the west wall of the Barton Gym](https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674164930773.jpeg)
By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
A new gym floor and seating have made a world of difference inside the Kirkman Center on the campus of Barton Community College. Over the Christmas break, SOPA Inc. installed plastic-material bleachers on the west, north and south sides of the upper level of the main gym.
In 2023, fans
have not only appreciated the upgraded look but also the accessibility with
more ADA compliant bleachers, according to Barton Athletic Director Trevor
Rolfs.
"From an aesthetic point of view to being handicap accessible, it was very much needed," said Rolfs. "It looks great in there. The seats are comfortable. I couldn't be more pleased with how it came out."
![The wooden bleachers along the upper level of the Barton Gym were replaced over the holiday break.](https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1659034256212.jpeg)
Rolfs was a guest on Sports Day on 1590 KVGB & 95.5 FM Thursday where he thanked the Larry and Kathy Schugart family for their generosity in getting the wooden bleachers replaced.
The Kirkman Endowment through the Barton Community College Foundation
contributed $100,000 for the bleacher replacement. While the Foundation cannot
fund athletic projects, the gym is used for graduations, community events and
other college functions.
The west side seating includes seatbacks and armrests. The main gym floor was
also resurfaced over the holidays.
Upcoming home basketball games for Barton Community College:
Jan. 28 - vs Hutchinson
Feb. 4 - vs Coffeyville
Feb. 8 - vs Cloud County
Feb. 15 - vs Butler
Feb. 18 - vs Seward County
Feb. 25 - vs Colby
![](https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674165096212.jpeg)
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