Fresh face for FAC court creates context for intramural competitions
Each year, UNT Health Fort Worth students are asked to complete a student experience
survey. This survey allows them to share feedback to the Division of Student Affairs
on their experience at UNT Health — including what they’re enjoying and areas that
could be improved.
One area multiple students highlighted was the need to resurface the court outside the Founders’ Activity Center. Several noted that the surface was cracking, making it difficult to play on. After reviewing the feedback, the Division of Student Affairs developed a plan to resurface the court for students. The process to resurface the court began in September 2025 and finished over winter break.
When students returned from winter break, they had a surprise waiting for them at the Founders’ Activity Center. The outdoor court was completely resurfaced with a new layer of cement and painted for full-court basketball, tennis, pickleball and volleyball.
Students have noticed the difference — not just visually, but with ease of use. Since the repairs were completed, court usage has increased significantly.
“It’s a lot of fun, we have a good time out here,” said Mark Conley, a fourth-year Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine student. “I feel like it’s a lot more grippy, so there’s less chance for injury.”
The updated court also allows students to play multiple sports in one space and has created new opportunities for intramural activities. Upcoming events include a three-point contest on Tuesday, March 17, and a three-on-three basketball tournament on Wednesday, March 18. Registration for both events is open from March 2-13.
“When I’m walking in to work in the morning, there’s always somebody on the court,” said Greg Baker, assistant director of the student assistance resource center in the Division of Student Affairs. “That wasn’t the case before — sometimes it was a ghost town. Now there’s always someone using the court, whether getting shots up, playing tennis or other sports, which is great to see.
“We’re excited to be able to offer students the chance to participate in intramurals, now that we have a good court for it.”
More intramural opportunities at the FAC are planned for March and April. Students can follow the Fitness Center and Student Affairs on Instagram at @unthealth_fac and @unthealthstudentaffairs for the latest updates.
Additional improvements to the FAC court are planned this spring, including branded fencing and wind screens.
“We are committed to making sure the fitness center offers a great experience for our students, so we’re happy to be able to provide this upgraded space for exercise and recreation in response to student feedback," said Teresa McKinney, Ed.D., director of student assistance resource center.