In the flat landscape of Oberlin a group of students are looking for some relief. For years students have been pushing for a climbing wall in Philips Gym, and this year it looks like they may be closer to their goal.
Students working in conjunction with the Outing Club are drumming up support among students to show the administration the level of student enthusiasm for the project.
In addition to petitions and verbal demonstrations of support, organizers are asking student groups to donate money to the project. They have approached co-ops and student organizations.
According to organizer Sachihi Otsuka, double-degree senior, the financial support of the administration depends on many factors. She said that they have received endorsements from Dean of Student Life Charlene Cole-Newkirk, Assistant to the President Diana Roose and Associate Dean of Multiculturalism Ken Holmes, but that funding is still unconfirmed. According to sophomore Josh Raisler Cohen, Director of Athletics Don Hunsinger also supports the project.
According to Otsuka, College administrators will discuss the College's support in a meeting in late October.
The cost of the project is estimated at $100,000. The proposed climbing wall would be located in an unused squash court in Phillips and be 35 feet tall.
Rock climbing is a unique and wonderful sport, according to Otsuka. She said that rock climbing allows climbers to get to know their own bodies and to push themselves in a safe environment. "You learn body independence and to trust your body," Otsuka said.
She also said that rock climbing is a team-building activity because the life of the climber is in the hands of the person controlling the ropes.
Climbing is also a great release for stress, Otsuka said. "Everything leaves you when you're on the wall."
"If we added a climbing wall, it would have permanent benefits to students for a long time to come," Raisler Cohen said.
Otsuka and Raisler Cohen said that climbing walls are gaining popularity across the country. "They are popping up all over," Otsuka said.
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