collage of SRC historical photos

25 Years of the Student Recreation Center

University Recreation is celebrating 25 years of the Student Recreation Center on the WSU Pullman campus! Before 2001, UREC was located in the CUB and known as "Activities and Recreation Sports." We're looking back at a rich history of Cougs being active over the last 25 years, and beyond.

Watch the throwback video from the SRC's 10th anniversary.

Support UREC

  • UREC for All: Helps WSU Pullman students access UREC programs by covering fees for courses, classes and activities, ensuring every Coug can participate regardless of financial barriers.
  • UREC Development Fund: Provides flexible resources to maintain facilities, support student staff, and create innovative programs that promote health and well-being for Cougs.
  • Chris Tapfer ORC Student Employee Development Fund: Supports training, travel, and experiences that prepare ORC student employees for success beyond WSU.

Get in Touch

Add your name to our mailing list to receive more details and an invitation to our Welcome Back event in September. 

Share Your UREC Story

We want to hear how the Student Recreation Center impacted your time at WSU. Share your stories and images to help us celebrate the moments that have made the SRC special.

Special Events

"25" Challenges

Each month, we'll have wellness challenges to recognize different areas in UREC. Follow UREC on social media to stay up on the latest challenges and prizes. 

April Bingo Card

April Challenge

Get outside and get a bingo! Use this card to complete outdoor activities in the Pullman area. Bring your winning bingo card to the Outdoor Recreation Center or submit to @wsu_urec on Instagram to get your ORC sticker. Turn in a full card for an ORC bandana. 

Download a printable April Bingo Card.

UREC Reunion Weekend: Sept 18-20

Throughout the weekend, SRC access will be free, and additional activities will be available to help you relive your UREC memories and make new ones. 

Ticket info coming soon.

Alumni Hangout

Fri, September 18 | 7-9 p.m.
Kick off the weekend with a casual evening at the SRC. Food and drinks provided.

Silver Social at the SRC

Sat, September 19 | 3 hours before football kickoff
Stop by before the football game to connect, eat, and get energized together before heading to the stadium.

Farewell Breakfast

Sun, September 20 | 8-10 a.m.
Wrap up the weekend with a relaxed brunch and one last chance to reconnect.

SRC History

1980s

The Fieldhouse Annex is built and is the first student-funded recreation center on campus.

1996

The idea for the Student Recreation Center first surfaced as a student priority in spring 1996, when ASWSU President-Elect Matt Caires introduced the concept to WSU students and administrators. Later that fall, at Caires’s request, President Sam Smith convened a task force to evaluate the feasibility of such a facility.

1997

The Student Recreation Facility Task Force partnered with Brailsford and Dunlavey to assess feasibility, conduct surveys, and gather student input, which showed strong support for a recreation center funded by a $100 per semester fee. Following a successful campus referendum and Board of Regents approval in 1997, planning began immediately, leading to the formation of the University Recreation Board of Directors to oversee policies and ensure inclusive programming.

2001

The Student Recreation Center opened on January 16, 2001. It was a $39 million, 160,000-square-foot facility on North Fairway Drive, will feature a state-of-the-art fitness center, indoor track, multiple courts, pools, wellness spaces, and areas for socializing and dining.

The UREC advisory board is founded, ensuring student oversight in decision-making. 

2003

An outdoor basketball court and sand volleyball court are added behind the SRC, fondly known as the "SRC Backyard."

2004

The challenge course is added behind the SRC.

2008

SRC celebrates its five millionth user.

2013

The Climbing/Bouldering Wall finishes construction and opens for use.

2015

SRC celebrates its ten millionth user.