The Panther Pad recently completed on campus, and it was the perfect time to gather feedback from students and staff about this vibrant new addition. The Panther Pad, conveniently in the heart of campus, has grown to be a popular area on campus, drawing students and sparking conversation.

Drury University’s Athletic Director, Nyla Milleson, highlighted the Panther Pad’s appeal. “The Panther Pad is a great addition to campus,” she says. “It is located in the middle of campus and draws students in.”

Students are delighted with the new facility, as seen by the variety of positive responses that have been shared. Reagon Hegarty described the Panther Pad as “super fun and engaging,” while Markell Dixon simply responded, “It’s sick!” when asked what they thought of it. Jarrod Smith said, “It’s so much grander than I could have imagined,” expressing his amazement and happiness at the result.

Austin O’Reilly, who founded and designed the Panther Pad, shared his joy with the project’s outcome. “Andy and his team did an outstanding job,” O’Reilly reports. “I can’t really think of anything different that their team didn’t think of—design and making things easily interactive with the students, players, and the community.”

When considering if the finished product matched his original idea, O’Reilly admitted that certain adjustments had to be made during the design process.

“The first pavilion, I think, was like half the size and there wasn’t a whole lot of structure to it. So, we had him do a bigger, nicer one, basically, and they came through, and it’s turned out amazing. All the custom colors and the curvature, some of the furniture, and the uniqueness of it—those are all things that I originally sketched on paper with a pencil. I kind of just threw ideas around on a napkin, and eventually, we added some color to it, and the professionals, Andy and his team, did a really good job.”

He also took pride in the Panther Pad’s wider influence. “I’m just proud of being able to play a part in bringing all the kids at school together, all the students and the community for events,” he says. “It’s huge for not only putting Drury on the map but also our hometown for being able to offer the first collegiate dedicated pickleball courts and offer scholarships. That’s pretty cool.”

When it comes to long-term expectations, O’Reilly is confident about the Panther Pad’s ability to develop and grow. “I think this is going to manifest itself and kind of formulate into its own magic, now that it’s here.”

There is a lot of anticipation about what the Panther Pad will provide the community in future years. Smith expressed his confident view. “There will be so many events here, from court games to pavilion socialization,” says Smith. “It will blow up in the community.” The Panther Pad is expected to become a hub for socializing and community events, boosting campus life for everyone.

Students’ habits are quickly embracing the Panther Pad into their daily lives. “I’ve used it three times for practice, but I hope to come every day after the season is over,” Hegarty said. Dixon is just as excited about making the Panther Pad into a regular hangout. “I’d like to be here every day if possible,” he states.

In comparison to the old courts, the Panther Pad is seen as a major upgrade. Students have noticed the difference in what the new space offers. Hegarty pointed out, “There wasn’t much to the old courts, and now there is more to do.” For those like Dixon, who never experienced the old setup, the new courts stand out as “definitely better.”

An ID scanning system controls access to the Panther Pad, similar to most buildings on campus. Students value the comfort and increased security it offers. “The scanning in keeps it safe and doesn’t bother me—it feels like regular scanning in.” Dixon added, “The scanning makes life easier.”

While feedback has been positive, a few suggestions were made to enhance the Panther Pad further in the future. Hegarty suggested, “A speaker system would be nice, but there are enough courts and plenty of lighting.” Dixon thought some decoration on the black screen would be a cool addition. Smith also mentioned a practical addition. “Extra storage would be nice,” he says.

Smith expressed his appreciation for the kind donation and support that helped to bring the Panther Pad to life. “I would like to thank Austin and the entire O’Reilly family,” he states, appreciating their significant influence on the success of this project. Austin’s dedication to the university and the community has been crucial for establishing an area that will benefit students and strengthen the campus community for many years to come.

The Panther Pad has received positive reviews overall and appears to be on track with the initial vision for the area. There are great expectations for its influence among the university community as it continues to gain popularity. With its mission to promote socializing, events, and a lively atmosphere, the Panther Pad is sure to be an ever-present and evolving feature of campus life.