Members of the Freshman Council are circulating positions to open the Indoor Athletic Building for eight hours on Saturdays and Sundays.
Eric Cutler, assistant director of athletics, said yesterday that a skeleton crew of four staff members is needed to keep the IAB open the extra four hours each of the two days. He said it would cost the University an added $60-$65 each day.
"I'd open it in a minute if we had the funds," Robert Watson '32, athletic director, said Wednesday. "The weekend is when the community can use it most. If the council can obtain the funds I'd be glad to see the facilities used that much more," he said.
"We've already cut the number of staff in an economy move," he said. "But we haven't been forced to cancel any programs."
Over 280 freshmen have signed the petition. A cover letter and copies of the petitions will be sent to Watson; Skiddy von Stade '38, dean of freshmen; the Standing Athletic Committee; and the Committee on Houses and Undergraduate Life.
Read more in Sports
UMass Surprises Football Team, 28-19
