September 1st, 2020 - 4:30pm

McMaster University has announced that all in-person Athletics & Recreation facilities and programs will remain closed to the public for the Fall term.

McMaster continues to prioritize the health and well-being of students, faculty and staff. To help curb the spread of COVID-19, the University has restricted all in-person student, faculty, staff events and discretionary activities throughout the entire semester. These restrictions, originally in place through August 31st, will now be in place until the end of the year. 

This decision directly impacts all community sports activities and programs. As a result, the Department of Athletics & Recreation (A&R) is offering free online fitness classes and virtual programming. The David Braley Sport Medicine & Rehabilitation Centre is open by appointment only, with all required health and safety measures in place.

Students are encouraged to participate in a variety of free daily fitness classes remotely, taught by certified trainers and The Pulse fitness staff. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I am wondering when the McMaster gym and fitness centre is opening. Are there any plans to reopen during the fall?
A: At this time, the University has made the decision to close McMaster Athletics & Recreation facilities, citing the health and well-being of students, faculty and staff.

Q: We are in Phase 3 of provincial reopening in Hamilton. Why aren't the facilities at McMaster aren't open like my local gym?
A: McMaster University has determined that to protect the health and safety of its students, faculty, staff and community members, it is not feasible to reopen on-campus recreational facilities at this time.

Q: When will McMaster Athletics & Recreation facilities reopen?
A: McMaster University and the Department of Athletics & Recreation will continue to assess how it can best serve students, student-athletes, and community members given the many challenges surrounding the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. There is currently no reopening timeline for A&R facilities. Any future plans will be conveyed via social media, department websites, and email communication.

Q: Are the outdoor fields and running track open for public use? 
A: All Athletics & Recreation facilities, including outdoor spaces such as the Mona Campbell Track, Ron Joyce Stadium, Alumni Field, 10-Acre Field, and the Alpine Tower remain closed until further notice. 

Q: Where can I find a complete list of Athletics & Recreation facility closures?
A: Please visit our Facilities Status page for a complete list of department closures and reopenings.

Q: I have items remaining in a locker that I will not be renewing in the fall. Are there times at which I will be able to empty my locker?
A: If you weren't able to attend our locker retrieval week June 22-26, please contact Manager of Facilities & Events, T.J. Kelly (kellyt@mcmaster.ca). 

Q: Do I have to pay the full University Athletics & Recreation Activity Fee if in-person services are not available?
A: The Department of Athletics & Recreation and the McMaster Students Union have announced a reduction of 75% to the University Athletics & Recreation Activity Fee for the Fall semester. McMaster University and the department encourage all students to explore the many virtual fitness and wellness offerings while in-person service is disrupted.

Q: Are McMaster Athletics & Recreation facilities available for rental?
A: In accordance with University policies put in place to help protect the health and safety of students, faculty, staff and community members, A&R facilities are currently not available for private rentals.

Q: The David Braley Sport Medicine & Rehabilitation Centre reopened July 13th. Is it safe to attend in-person appointments?
A: Clinic staff have implemented strict procedures and policies to ensure the utmost care is being taken to protect the health and safety of those visiting the facility. For a list of adjustments to operating policies, please visit https://rec.mcmaster.ca/programs/david-braley-sport-medicine-rehabilitation-centre/news/clinic-reopening

Q: Who can I speak to so that I can express my questions/concerns about A&R facilities not being open?
A: While the Department of Athletics & Recreation is doing everything it can to offer the highest level of service during these unprecedented times, we understand your frustration. Questions, comments or concerns can be sent to adoffice@mcmaster.ca.