Purdue University Northwest, which enters its fifth year in NCAA Division II in 2021-22, is excited to announce RUSH Physical Therapy as the official physical therapy and athletic training partner of Pride Athletics. Highlighting the partnership, the softball field at Dowling Park - home of the PNW softball program - will be named RUSH Physical Therapy Field.
The softball field naming rights is an extension of RUSH Physical Therapy's increased involvement with PNW Pride Athletics. This collaboration includes RUSH Physical Therapy operating a physical therapy center at the PNW Fitness & Recreation Center which is conveniently located for Pride students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the community. A grand opening of the physical therapy center is scheduled for Fall 2021.
"We are extremely proud and excited to announce our naming rights agreement with RUSH Physical Therapy," PNW Director of Athletics Rick Costello said. "Our expanded partnership with RUSH aligns our two organizations and improves the strong, long-standing relationship with the local community by supporting lasting health and wellness programs on our campus. We are excited for the new opportunities this partnership will provide."
RUSH Physical Therapy is a community-based provider of outpatient physical rehabilitation throughout greater Chicagoland and northwest Indiana.
"We are proud to be a leader in physical therapy and athletic training and committed to providing clinical and service excellence to PNW Pride athletes," said Kristin Burda, P.T., DPT, RUSH Physical Therapy vice president of operations. "Our center on campus is accessible to not only student-athletes, but to the greater community as well. Providing the naming rights for Dowling Park is an exciting way to partner with PNW and to let our neighbors know we are here to help them heal, recover and improve their quality of life."
Dowling Park opened in 2015 and provides a comprehensive outdoor sports complex for both PNW Pride Athletics and the City of Hammond Parks & Recreation Department. Located just north of I80-94 on Kennedy Avenue, the softball field debuted in Spring 2015 as the official home of PNW Softball. The field features an all-turf surface making it playable year-round.
