Henderson, NV, May 29, 2024 – The University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) Sports Innovation Institute is proud to announce the continued support of the Lake Las Vegas Sports Club through the funding of their sixth sport science graduate assistant. This funding, which follows a longstanding partnership between Lake Las Vegas Sports Club and UNLV Sports Innovation Institute, will support a Community Internship Graduate Assistant (CIGA) position dedicated to enhancing operations at Lake Las Vegas and contributing to research activities at the UNLV Sports Science Satellite Lab.
Approximately six years ago, the shared vision of Dann Battistone, General Manager of Lake Las Vegas Sports Club, Jackie Arcana, Director of Fitness, and Dr. John Mercer of UNLV led to the creation of this academic-industry collaboration. This visionary partnership resulted in the establishment of the UNLV Sports Science Satellite Lab at Lake Las Vegas, supported by significant contributions from the Lake Las Vegas Sports Club.
“The collaboration between Lake Las Vegas and UNLV has been instrumental in advancing sports science research and community engagement,” said Dr. John Mercer, Professor and Director of Sports Science at UNLV Sports Innovation Institute. “The funding for graduate assistants not only provides invaluable support for our students but also fosters a symbiotic relationship where academic knowledge meets practical application. We are deeply grateful to Lake Las Vegas for their unwavering commitment.”
To date, Lake Las Vegas Sports Club has provided roughly $150,000 in funding, supporting five graduate students who have gained practical experience by working with club members, managing research space, and engaging in diverse research initiatives. The club has also generously gifted the space for the UNLV Sports Science Satellite Lab, valued at approximately $100,000 over the past six years.
“It has been great to support graduate students through their educational and research paths, and each of them have made unique contributions leading to the success of the Sports Club,” said Dann Battisone, General Manager of Lake Las Vegas Sports Club.
“The Lake Las Vegas Sports Club partnership with UNLV has been a great success! This collaboration is not only beneficial for our members but also strengthens the sense of community within our establishment. Together, we are committed to promoting health, wellness, and an active lifestyle for all,” said Jackie Arcana, Assistant General Manager and Director of Fitness of Lake Las Vegas Sports Club.
In addition to funding graduate assistants, the Lake Las Vegas Sports Science Lab has sponsored and organized numerous academic and community events, including clinics, seminars, round tables, cross country meet data collection, wetsuit demonstrations, and retreats. These initiatives have not only enriched the local community but have also helped secure an additional $100,000 in funding for sports science research.
The collaboration between Lake Las Vegas and UNLV has played a pivotal role in the creation of the UNLV Sports Innovation Institute, serving as a leading example of how academic and community partnerships can combine efforts in a meaningful and impactful way.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Lake Las Vegas Sports Club, particularly Dann Battistone and Jackie Arcana,” added Dr. Mercer.
