Any time we get the chance to work with one of Canada's premier institutions, one that boasts a rich history in academics and athletics, we get pumped up. Founded in 1827, the University of Toronto is renowned for its Varsity Blues teams, which compete at the highest levels in university Sports. The swimming program, in particular, has a storied legacy dating back to the 1950s, producing elite athletes and maintaining a competitive edge in national and international competitions. At the heart of its aquatics facilities is the Varsity Pool, an impressive 8-lane, 50-meter Olympic-sized pool located in the Athletic Centre on the St. George campus. This venue supports everything from recreational swimming and instructional programs to high-stakes Varsity Blues meets, fostering a vibrant community of swimmers, coaches, and spectators.
Recently, we had the privilege of partnering with U of T to revitalize their pool deck seating. The existing telescopic bleachers had aged significantly, becoming nonfunctional and requiring lockout for safety reasons. In addition to being non-functional, they no longer complied with the current National Building Code and Ontario Building Code standards for telescopic seating.
To address these challenges, we introduced our Kodiak 2400 Series High Humidity Telescopic Bleachers, a solution we know is engineered specifically for the demanding conditions of pool decks and natatoriums. These bleachers feature optional upgrades like hot-dipped galvanized steel understructure and stainless steel hardware, ensuring durability against moisture, chlorine, and humidity. As one of the few companies in North America capable of delivering seating tailored for aquatic environments, we are proud to say that we were one of few that was uniquely positioned to meet U of T's needs.
The project kicked off late in 2025 when our team visited the site to measure the pool deck and assess the space. We verified compatibility for the new setup and promptly prepared a quote for six banks of three-row bleachers. After reviewing our proposal, the university quickly awarded the project, and our team was able to complete the installation in the late fall of 2025.
Today, these state-of-the-art bleachers provide safe, code-compliant seating for up to 168 spectators, enhancing the viewing experience for swim races, practices, and events. This upgrade not only restores functionality but also supports U of T's commitment to excellence in aquatics, allowing more fans to cheer on the Varsity Blues and enjoy the facilities.
At Sport Systems Canada, we're proud to contribute to institutions like U of T that prioritize both athletic achievement and facility safety. If your aquatic center needs a seating refresh, contact us today to discuss how our specialized solutions can make a splash!