UChicago Medicine, the Valparaiso University Department of Athletics and Valpo Parks celebrated the completion of the Community Court Rehabilitation Project at Will Park in Valparaiso at a ribbon-cutting ceremony that took place earlier this week.
 
Emcee Todd Ickow, the longtime play-by-play voice of Valpo Athletics, recognized representatives in attendance from UChicago Medicine, Valpo Athletics, Valpo Parks, BSN, EverLine Coatings, the City of Valparaiso and community partners. The revitalized court will help provide a space for youth development, community health and neighborhood connections.
 
"We're very grateful for our partnership with UChicago Medicine," Director of Athletics Laurel Hosmer said. "We care a lot about our community. Our name is one and the same with Valparaiso. It's important for us to come to the community. Having the opportunity to invest in a basketball court rehabilitation project like this is incredible, and it's part of how we build the next generation of student-athletes."
 
In collaboration with Valpo Athletics, UChicago Medicine selected one basketball court within a Northwest Indiana park to receive a complete rehabilitation. The partnership reflects UChicago Medicine's commitment to investing in community health and wellness initiatives throughout the region. By supporting projects that promote active lifestyles and safe spaces for recreation, UChicago Medicine continues to extend its mission of advancing health equity, building stronger neighborhoods and empowering families to thrive.
 
"It is important to provide a place where people can be active and play ball close to their homes," UChicago Medicine Chief Administrative Officer, Northwest Indiana Lauren Hull said during her remarks at the ceremony. "We are thankful and happy to be a part of this project."
 
The event featured a sweet surprise as the Valpo Velvet Ice Cream truck was on site, scooping up its locally famous treats for those in attendance. After the ribbon cutting, members of the Valpo men's and women's basketball programs including head coaches Roger Powell Jr. and Courtney Boyd played basketball on the community court.
 
"We are thrilled to celebrate the newest enhancement to Will Park," Director of Valpo Parks Kevin Nuppnau said. "Valpo Parks, the neighborhood and the entire community are incredibly grateful for the generous support from Valparaiso University Athletics, UChicago Medicine and the Valpo Parks Foundation. Their investment in Will Park is an investment in our people, our kids and our neighborhood. On behalf of everyone who calls Will Park their neighborhood park, we thank you and we appreciate you."
 
Valpo Athletics, Van Wagner and UChicago Medicine are beginning the process of selecting a location for next year's Community Court Rehabilitation Project. Parks and Recreation Departments interested in nominating a park are encouraged to contact Will Price at will.price@valpo.edu.
 
As a part of the 2025-2026 season, Valpo fans will also have the chance to make a direct impact. At basketball games, fans will be able to nominate and vote for their favorite parks to be considered for rehabilitation. Stay tuned for more details on this exciting opportunity for Valpo Athletics to support the community through its partnership with UChicago Medicine.