Sherman Thomas Student Center
The Sherman Thomas Student Center is visible proof that Asbury Theological Seminary is concerned with the whole person. We know that the mind, body and spirit are interdependent entities. Fitness or wholeness thus involves all three facets.
Physical health is important to the seminarian as well as to the pastor, missionary or teacher. A strong, healthy body is an asset and is desirable in any profession. Also, many tensions and pressures, both personal and professional, can be eased by vigorous physical exercise. The apostle Paul says, “Don’t you know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who lives in you?… so use your bodies for God’s glory ” (1 Cor. 6:19, 20).
Available activities include aerobics, racquetball, weights, basketball, volleyball and table tennis. Equipment may be checked out from the Office of Community Life- Student Services.
In addition to recreational facilities, the Student Center also contains the Stanger Prayer Chapel, a student lounge, the Student Body Council office, dining commons, and the The Deep End exercise and game room facility.
The Sherman Thomas Student Center makes possible the inclusion of physical education and recreational and intramural sports. It is a place where seminarians can go for relaxation and recreation, which helps them serve the Lord in today ’s world.
Policies for the Use of Recreational Facilities
Administration of the Student Center is the responsibility of the Coordinator of Student Services who also recommends policies and programs to Asbury Seminary’s administrative officers. Seminary students are hired as supervisors. They are in charge of the Student Center during the evenings and Saturdays.
- Hours
- During the regular school year, the recreational facilities will be open as follows (although the hours may be adjusted):
- Monday through Thursday: 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.
- Friday: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Saturday: 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
- Sunday: CLOSED
- Revised schedules for official school breaks will be posted on email and the building doors.
- The recreational facilities will be closed during official Seminary functions that involve the study body at large.
- During the regular school year, the recreational facilities will be open as follows (although the hours may be adjusted):
- Use
- Gym schedules are available from the Office of Community Life- Student Services.
- Facilities are open to all Seminarians, faculty, staff, alumni and their families. A parent must accompany children under the age of 16. Children of students ages 16-18 must have an ID made and waiver of liability signed at Student Services to use the facility without parental supervision.
- The evening use of the gym will make allowance for the Seminary intramural program.
- A Seminarian may bring one adult guest when using the recreation facilities.
- All special group scheduling must be done through the Office of Community Life- Student Services.
- Racquetball Courts
Due to the popularity of the racquetball courts, the following guidelines are necessary so that as many persons as possible may use the facility.
- The racquetball courts may be reserved for one-hour periods, 24 hours in advance.
- Playing double (four players at a time) is encouraged.
- The courts may be reserved for only one hour per family per day. If there are openings on the day of play, a second family member may sign up.
- A person may sign up only for themselves or their party. Reservations must be made in person.
- Cancellations may be called to the Office of Community Life- Student Services (858-2349).
- Security
To avoid losing personal items, students should observe the following guidelines:
- Valuables should not be left in locker room unless they are secured.
- Students should rent a locker. Lockers are available for a nominal yearly fee. Inquire in the Office of Community Life- Student Services.
- Students should report any suspicious persons or strangers to the supervisor on duty.
- Equipment
- Equipment for the following activities is available to be checked out from Student Services: basketball, racquetball (including goggles), table tennis, pool and volleyball.
- There will be a charge for any malicious damage to equipment.
- Tennis Courts
The Royal Tennis Courts are located behind Turkington Manor.
The Ethos Statement of the Seminary is to be observed in both conduct and attire at all times by those using the Student Center and Royal Tennis Courts.