CLARION, Pa. — Clarion University announced Thursday that the athletic department will continue using Tippin Gym for volleyball, men’s and women’s basketball and men’s and women’s swimming through Thanksgiving.

“In a joint decision by university administration and the athletics department, the Clarion Golden Eagle volleyball, men’s and women’s basketball and men’s and women’s swimming and diving teams will continue to hold practices and competitions in Tippin Gymnasium through the Thanksgiving holiday,” a media release from the school’s Sports Information office said.

“We feel that continuing to use Tippin Gymnasium through the end of November is the correct course of action and will provide our student-athletes with the best possible experience,” Director of Athletics Wendy Snodgrass said. “However, it is important to note that plans to renovate Tippin have not changed. We simply felt that this was the best decision for our student-athletes at this time.”

According to the release, the university installed new hardwood floors in the Student Recreation Center this summer in preparation for athletics competitions starting this fall. That plan remains the same, with it being anticipated that men’s and women’s basketball will begin to use the Student Recreation Center for practice and competition, and the men’s and women’s swimming and diving teams will practice but not compete in Tippin Natatorium through the end of November, according to the release.

The athletic department moved its offices from Tippin to Ralston Hall in late April with the assumed anticipation of work starting at the gym.

Further questions on the decision to continue utilizing Tippin Gym and the status of the Tippin Gym renovation project have been submitted to Clarion University official. A follow-up story will be posted on exploreClarion.comafter Clarion University submits its responses.