Located in beautiful Allegheny County, Upper Saint Clair High school is set in a Pittsburgh suburb full of tight-knit families and rich history. Upper Saint Clair Township has a small-town feel where local school sporting events are at the heart of their community’s connection (Go Panthers!).
Prior to reaching out to Advantage Sport & Fitness, USC High School struggled with the functionality and safety of their fitness facility. Leaders within the athletic department wanted a gym that inspired student-athletes and faculty to enjoy and utilize the space regularly. USC was determined to transform their gym so students and staff alike could bond, elevate their well-being, and meet their fitness goals.
Robbie Waller and the Advantage team came highly recommended from our other projects in the Pittsburgh area, but it wasn’t until the renovation process began that the coaches and administrators at USC realized Robbie’s level of commitment and passion for the project. Head Football Coach Mike Junko says Robbie helped them integrate their culture to the fitness space.
Robbie worked collaboratively with USC and ASF staff at each stage to think through details, going the extra mile to make sure every aspect of the design was meaningful and functional.
““If I had a question, or I needed help with the smallest detail, Robbie would stay on the phone with me trying to figure out what was the best solution.””
Head Football Coach Mike Junko
Upper Saint Clair High School
The design process was an opportunity for ASF to help USC place their own mark on the space, making color scheme, layout, and overall branding a crucial element for both aesthetics and school pride. When you walk through the gym at USC, there is a fresh breath of school spirit from the floors donning the USC logo, to custom upholstered weight benches, and laser-cut letters spelling “Upper Saint Clair” along the double-half racks. You cannot help but feel a deep sense of comradery. Since completion of the space, big dreams and goals among the students, athletic department, and staff have been made and are being pursued.
““I felt like we received white glove service from the beginning of the process to the end.” ”
Head Football Coach Mike Junko
Upper Saint Clair High School
The USC football program, along with the support of alumni, helped push this project forward. Through avid fundraising efforts. The long anticipated revealing of the gym was a recent hallmark event. Coach Junko described the grand opening as powerful and heartwarming, stating “I can't even describe to you the looks on their faces and the emotions that went through their minds. Robbie and the Advantage team worked hard to satisfy stakeholders, and everyone involved and that’s what really sets them apart from everyone else.” We could not be prouder of this project or happier for the students and faculty at Upper Saint Clair.
