General Meeting: Indiana University Natatorium – Indianapolis

All are invited to the May General Meeting of the Indianapolis Ambassadors at the Indiana University Natatorium – Indianapolis.

President Michele Feld will be moderating a panel discussion about the “Nat”. The panelists are:

• Ed Merkling is the Natatorium Director; Ed has been at the Nat 30+ years in various roles.
• Peter Bick is a professional swimming & diving photographer based in Indy who is retired from Lilly. He has been the official photographer for a number of swimming organizations and most recently for the publication Swimming World. He is renowned in the swimming community and is typically at all the major championships including Olympic Trials, NCAA National Championships, USA Swimming National Championships, IHSAA State Championships, etc.
• Arlene McDonald: I have worn a lot of hats but am currently the Event Coordinator at the IU Natatorium and have served as the Meet Director for the last five Olympic Trials – 4 in Omaha, Nebraska; and 1 in Indy at Lucas Oil Stadium.

The “Nat” is the largest indoor aquatic facility in the United States with a seating capacity of 4,700 and has hosted events ranging from high school meets to national level meets such as the Olympic Trials. Over 100,000 competitive swimmers and fans frequent the IU Natatorium annually.

Originally built in 1982, the IU Natatorium recently underwent a $20 million renovation, upgrading nearly every aspect of the facility. These enhancements ensure it remains a premier aquatic destination for years to come. Come learn about the vital role that volunteers play in events hosted by at the IU Natatorium.

Afterward, the group is invited to join up for refreshments for our ‘Out After’ at Big Woods Speedway.

Arrival and Parking

• The IU Natatorium (labeled PE on the map) is located at 901 West New York Street; Indianapolis 46202
• Parking will be in the Sports Complex Garage (labeled XD on the map).
• From New York Street, turn south on Blackford Street (the stoplight at Military Park).
• Take the first right onto Ohio Street.
• Proceed through the stop sign at Blake Street; then enter the first entrance after the stop sign into the Sports Garage. This entrance is labeled Visitor Parking.
• Pull a ticket upon entry and keep the ticket in a safe place as you will need this ticket to exit. You will be given a voucher to use for payment when you exit.
• Once inside the garage, keep left and park near the entry way to the Natatorium (a glass enclosed foyer with elevators).
• Enter the Natatorium and walk straight onto the main concourse where we will assemble at 6:00 PM before proceeding to our meeting location.