South Country Co-Op CEO Graham Getz and U of L Provost and Vice-President of Academics Dr. Michelle Helstein announce the new naming sponsor for the Centre for Sport & Wellness. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

Co-Op announced as naming sponsor for U of L’s Centre for Sport & Wellness

Oct 14, 2025 | 2:21 PM

The athletics and recreation building at the University of Lethbridge (U of L) is now called the Co-Op Centre for Sport & Wellness.

South Country Co-Op has been announced as the facility’s naming sponsor. The company will contribute $4.25 million over the 25-year agreement, or $170,000 per year.

Graham Getz, CEO of South Country Co-Op, says it is both their largest and longest-lasting sponsorship in southern Alberta.

“Our purpose statement is enriching lives and communities. With the partnership that we’ve just developed and entrenched into what we’re doing here in Lethbridge, really brings our purpose to life,” says Getz.

He adds, “This facility engages every generation, from children participating in sport camps to tournaments, conferences and events, to seniors taking fitness classes and everything in between, all in the name of health and wellness. We’re proud to be a part of that journey.”

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Neil Langevin, Director of Athletics and Recreation Services, ensures that 100 per cent of the money will stay in the department, going towards facility enhancements and the creation of a new scholarship.

On facility enhancements, he says that the funds will help to alleviate budget shortfalls and bring some much-needed equipment and renovations.

“General facility members might see it as things as simple as new volleyball nets or more equipment around here, as well as ensuring that our weight room has up-to-date things and that things are good there,” Langevin explains.

A new endowed scholarship will create opportunities for students to have access to critical financial support, and a portion of the funds will be matched by the U of L Board of Governors’ matching program.

The Centre of Sport & Wellness was established in 2007, and it welcomes more than 500,000 people every year.