by Emma Willibey

STA’s McDonnell Family Sports Complex merited an honor at the annual Southtown All-Stars Awards Dinner Aug. 16 at the Uptown Theater.  The track, shared with UMKC, earned a “1st Round Drafts” title for outstanding construction from Kansas City’s Southtown Council, an organization dedicated to local business promotion. The council nominated area institutions who have benefited Kansas City through public improvement, or, in STA’s case, efficient facilities.

“I think it’s the most beautiful track in the city,” STA president Nan Bone said. “[I was] totally surprised and really excited [about getting the award].”

While being nominated does not entail specific requirements, a mention in the “1st Round Drafts” category implies attention to detail. According to STA development director Mary Beth Compton, the sports complex’s stone walls mirror the stone exterior of nearby homes to create compatibility with their surroundings.

“The track was designed with the intention that it fit well within the neighborhood,” Compton said.

According to Compton, durability is the facility’s highlight. The regulation-size track boasts Olympic Games-approved Mondotrack construction designed to improve performance with enhanced shock absorption. While the STA population dominates track usage, the facility is accessible to nearby residents and UMKC students. According to Bone, the entire community has generated positive feedback.

“We hear things like ‘STA has made so many positive changes for young women,’” Bone said. “[We’re] always looking at ways to do the best for our students.”