Marshall’s Recreation Center celebrates 15 years
By Melanie Chapman Whitt
MU 72 | FALL 2024
All college campuses have landmark locations that invoke memories with alumni and inspire the newest class of students who trod its paths. From the iconic spires of Old Main to the full-of-life hustle and bustle of the Memorial Student Center, many of Marshall’s most loved spots have been around for generations.
One of the newer additions to the Huntington campus, celebrating 15 years this year, is the Marshall Recreation Center — a vital hub of life and activity, with an impact that extends far beyond the bounds of the university.
“In my career, I have traveled to many recreation facilities, and ours continues to shine,” said Michele Muth, who serves as director of campus recreation.
Muth has been with the Rec since 2010, a little over a year after it officially opened its doors.
“Our team has worked to bring programming that benefits the community,” she said. “We have held multiple special events over the years, including 5K races, pump and runs, climbing competitions, disc golf challenges, pool safety events for kids and even an indoor triathlon.
“The Rec not only helps Marshall University attract new students during the recruitment process, but it also provides a place for current students to socialize and spend time with others through our diverse programming. We provide the space needed for them to foster their physical health and mental well-being.”
The Rec has seen its share of events over the years, from regular gatherings like fitness classes to birthday parties and community events. But — there has also been romance. There’s just something about shared experiences when endorphins start to flow.
“Something might be in the air!” said Muth, who cited a handful of couples off the top of her head who have met and tied the knot since first walking into the Rec as students.
Kaitlin Horton met her husband Patrick in 2014 while working as a lifeguard at the Rec.
“He was swimming, not very well, and asked me what he needed to do to pass the lifeguard certification since he was looking for a job,” Horton said. “I laughed and told him he needed to swim better.”
Her love for the pool and his distaste for swimming, along with getting in cold water, laid the groundwork for their romance. After many coaching sessions, Patrick landed a job as a fitness attendant at the Rec, perfect for an exercise science major. Eventually, a proposal came, just outside of the Rec Center doors.
“From the start, I knew he was the one,” Horton said. “He was easy to talk to and had a great sense of humor that I loved. I’ve always considered the Rec Center a special place, fostering many ‘REClationships.’”
Horton is now in her 12th year as a full-time staff member, working as assistant director of programs for aquatics and fitness. Her now-husband continues to personal train at the Rec and teach group fitness classes occasionally, simply because, as they say, it’s hard to leave such a memorable place.
The 123,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility officially turned 15 on Feb. 5, 2024. Looking ahead to the future, those who have been along for the ride at the Rec hope to continue to challenge themselves to bring compelling programming to the surrounding area.
“I have seen the Rec become part of the community,” Muth said. “Our unique advantage lies in our ability to offer diverse programming, thanks to our wonderful facility. When we reach a point where adults reflect on learning to swim at the Rec Center or having their first job there, I think we will have truly accomplished our mission.”
When we reach a point where adults reflect on learning to swim at the Rec Center or having their first job there, I think we will have truly accomplished our mission.
– Michele Muth, Director of Campus Recreation
I’ve always considered the Rec Center a special place, fostering many “REClationships.”
– Kaitlin Horton, Assistant Director of Programs: Aquatics and Fitness
