Roncalli High School hosted a dedication of the newly remodeled, and now named, Ron Klestinski Weight Room on Saturday. This project cost an estimated nearly $85,000 that was made possible through the generosity of numerous donors and began in October 2021.
The weight room features an open-concept, industrial design with an exposed ceiling, new lighting, fresh wall paint color and signage, stereo and speaker system, TVs and updated fitness equipment. Student-athletes, faculty and staff are able to utilize the space.
The weight room is dedicated in memory of Ron Klestinski who began his journey at Roncalli High School in 1966. During his tenure, he was a biology instructor and head football coach. Klestinski also held the positions of head track coach, as well as staffing assistant basketball and track coaching positions during his time at Roncalli. Under his leadership, the football team won the WISAA State Championship in 1969. In 2009, Roncalli presented Klestinski with the Distinguished Educator Award. He also was named the first dean of students at Roncalli in 1978 and held that position until his retirement in 2000.
The dedication event consisted of a prayer service for the family, weight room blessing by Deacon Mark Knipp of St. Peter the Fisherman Catholic Parish, weight room viewing and student-athlete demonstrations of equipment.