COOS BAY, OR — Marshfield High School opened the doors to its new 3,500 square foot fitness center during its Pirates Night celebration last month. One year ago the new fitness center was merely a dream, but thanks to the overwhelming generosity of two former Marshfield High School athletes Joe Shank and Jim Theiring, this dream has become a reality. Students who attended Marshfield High School in the 1950s, Shank and Theiring are partners today who own and operate the Almaden Valley Athletic Club in San Jose, CA.
“The fitness center is just one way we can give back to Coos Bay and show how grateful we are for the impact that the teachers and coaches at Marshfield High School have had on our lives,” said Shank. “After all, we wouldn't be as successful today if it hadn't been for what we learned at Marshfield.”
Shank and Theiring will dedicate the fitness center in honor of the late Marshfield High School coach Chester Haliski. Haliski, better known in Coos Bay as “Chet the Jet,” was a passionate teacher and coach at Marshfield High School for 33 years. Chester Haliski passed away earlier this year at the age of 84.
The new 3,500 square foot “Chet Haliski Fitness Center” features several distinct areas including a free weight area, strength machines, stair climbers, bikes, and several other forms of fitness equipment. All the equipment comes from Shank and Theiring's Almaden Valley Athletic Club and has been refurbished to feature the Marshfield Pirate pride colors of purple and gold.
“My coaches and physical education experience at Marshfield High School set me on a career path and a lifestyle of health and fitness,” said Theiring.
“It is my goal that the new ‘Chet Haliski Fitness Center’ will provide students and athletes a state-of-the-art facility that will help them benefit from a healthy and active lifestyle.”