Did you know the Robson & Lindley Aquatics Center at SMU is more than just a pool? It’s a monument to athletic excellence and sustainable design. This natatorium is the proud home of SMU’s internationally recognized swimming and diving teams. SMU dedicated the Robson & Lindley Aquatics Center on November 3, 2017.
The Robson & Lindley Aquatics Center makes a splash in Division I swimming and diving. The facilities, coaching, and training technology prepare athletes for the highest competition levels.
President R. Gerald Turner noted SMU’s long history of producing Olympians and NCAA champions. He affirmed SMU’s commitment to first-rate facilities with the Robson & Lindley Aquatics Center.
Inside the Robson & Lindley Aquatics Center, the Barr-McMillion Natatorium honors legendary coaches. Coach A.R. “Red” Barr and Coach George “Mac” McMillion are icons. The natatorium has an Olympic-sized pool. It can be configured for eight 50-meter lanes or twenty-two 25-yard lanes. The diving area features a 10-meter tower with four springboards. When Mustang swimming triumphs, the diving tower lights up red. Spectators can fill 800 seats on the mezzanine level. Three large video boards display times and scores.
Donor Bruce Robson expressed his honor in helping to honor the legacy of coaches. He also wanted to honor the swimmers and divers who built the program. This aquatics center will attract top talent to SMU.
As a training facility, the Robson & Lindley Aquatics Center features the SwimPro video system. Underwater and above-water cameras analyze performance. Coaches can review the video with swimmers on the deck or in a conference room. The U.S. Olympic Training Center uses a similar system.
The Robson & Lindley Aquatics Center includes locker rooms, a student lounge, a classroom, and coaches’ offices. Public locker rooms support community events and swim lessons.
Coach Eddie Sinnott said that recruits see SMU’s commitment to swimming and diving upon entering the Robson & Lindley Aquatics Center.
SMU Director of Athletics Rick Hart emphasized the program’s international recognition. The Robson & Lindley Aquatics Center gives student-athletes a world-class facility.
The Robson & Lindley Aquatics Center construction received significant support from donors. Lead donors include Bruce A. Robson, Emily K. Robson, Joe Robson, Hannah Robson, Steven J. Lindley, and Shelli Mims Lindley.
The Sheila and Jody Grant Challenge encouraged donors to give the remaining funds.
The design team minimized materials and waste during construction. Over 90% of construction waste was recycled. The project prioritized recycled and regionally sourced materials. Indoor air quality was assured with low-emission materials.
The Robson & Lindley Aquatics Center achieved LEED Gold certification. The building is near DART Light Rail lines, encouraging alternative transportation. It is within walking distance of many services. SMU offers preferred parking for low-emitting vehicles. The project maximized open space and vegetation. Water conservation features reduce water usage by 36%. Occupants have access to natural daylight and outdoor views. Efficient systems reduce energy usage by 31%. SMU purchases renewable energy to offset energy use. The Robson & Lindley Aquatics Center is a non-smoking building. SMU’s recycling program supports waste reduction.
In 2023, SMU added the Holt Hickman Outdoor Pool to the Robson & Lindley Aquatics Center. The outdoor pool includes an eight-lane pool, diving boards, and an instructional pool. SMU is one of few universities with both indoor and outdoor 50-meter pools. The Hickman family’s gift honored Holt Hickman, an SMU swimmer.
So, as you stand before the Robson & Lindley Aquatics Center, remember that it represents SMU’s dedication to sports, sustainability, and community. It’s a place where champions are made and a greener future is built.