Staying on top of equipment trends in order to provide students with the best, new equipment is probably an essential part of your job as a campus recreation professional. Deciding on what equipment companies to partner with can be a challenge. To help, we spoke with Loretta Capra, the director of recreation at Colorado State University, who highlighted her experience working with Matrix Fitness, one of the world’s premier commercial fitness brands.
Campus Rec Magazine: How were you introduced to Matrix and why did you decide to partner with them?
Loretta Capra: Matrix has been a long-time partner with the Colorado State University Campus Recreation program. Their quality equipment and unparalleled service over the past several years is one of the main reasons that we chose Matrix for a recent replacement of a large number of cardio pieces in the Student Recreation Center. Mark Loomer, Matrix’s National Sales Manager, keeps in contact with us and is available for questions and assistance long after the initial sale has been completed with is both unexpected and appreciated.
CR: What are the benefits to your rec center as a result of the partnership with Matrix?
LC: The Matrix equipment in the Colorado State University Student Recreation Center is utilized regularly and because of superior performance, it is rare that any of the pieces are out of service for any length of time. When a piece is in need of repair, our in-house maintenance staff are able to easily fix it and get it back on the floor in a timely manner. Matrix has helped this process by providing training to the maintenance staff and replacement components for their equipment. As a result, this is a Win Win for all involved.
CR: What are the benefits to your students as a results of the partnership?
LC: The Colorado State University Campus Recreation Student Development Fund helps student employees attend trainings, complete certifications/licensure, participate at regional/national conference and represent CSU at regional/national NIRSA association events by providing funding and Matrix is a supporter of this initiative. Having the ability to award scholarships not only benefits the recipient personally and professionally, but also the Campus Recreation Department and University community. A student recipient returns to the department with new knowledge, improved skills and an appreciation that translates to a committed employee. It also provides an opportunity for the employee to role model professional development to peers within a specific program area, ultimately improving the Campus Recreation workforce and service to the University community.
CR: What else can you tell other recreation professionals about the benefits of working with Matrix?
LC: Following prescribed purchasing procedures will most likely be required for volume purchases for any institution or company, however, the benefits of working with Matrix are numerous for the initial sales contact to long-term support. Matrix is a company that demonstrates integrity by providing the total package.
For more information about Matrix, visit www.matrixfitness.com.
