I AM THIRD ARENA
The I AM THIRD Arena is more than an athletics venue. It is a bold ministry platform that embodies IWU’s mission of God first, others second, and self third. In a world where athletics can so easily become self-focused, this Arena will serve as a countercultural space, uniting hearts in service, excellence, and faith. It will strengthen partnerships across Grant County, fuel new programs, and attract students who are drawn to a purpose larger than themselves.
At its core, the Arena is a place of transformation. As Coach Greg Tonagel often reminds his players, “From a young age, athletics is a me-first environment. For players to come in and have that flipped — to be told your value and identity come from God and your success is going to be evaluated by the growth of the people around you — it is not natural at first.” The Arena will be a place where this powerful shift becomes real, where athletic excellence and spiritual formation converge, and where lives are forever changed.
July 2025 Project Update
Project Timeline
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Jan 2025
- Drawings and specs to bidders
- Receive bids, construction begins
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Feb 2025
- Mobilization/construction fence
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Nov 2026
- Project closeout
- Building occupancy
Updated: Sep 8, 2026
STRATEGY
Key components of the initiative include:
- Renovation of the Martin Residence Hall facility
- Addition of club basketball and volleyball teams
- Launch of a Men’s Varsity Volleyball team
- Construction of the arena itself
PROJECTED COST
The I AM THIRD Arena Journey
For more than 12 years, the IWU community has held a dream to build an arena. That dream has never been about bricks and mortar alone. It has always been about Kingdom impact. Through the faithful witness of IWU coaches and athletes, the I Am Third philosophy has become a way of life that transforms hearts on and off the court.
Coach Tonagel’s vision is clear: “I want to raise a generation of athletes who will trade the pursuit of me for the pursuit of three. We call it I Am Third: God first, others second, self third.” This Arena will stand as a living expression of that vision, designed not only for competition but also for ministry, discipleship, and community impact.
The I AM THIRD Arena will host basketball games, volleyball matches, youth programs, and community events year-round. Yet its greater purpose is to proclaim Christ, disciple young athletes, and foster spiritual growth among all who gather within its walls. Every visitor will encounter the message of I Am Third, boldly displayed as a reminder of the eternal mission it represents.
/>Donors and partners like you are essential to bringing this vision to life. Your support will create not simply a state-of-the-art athletic arena. You are investing in a ministry with eternal reach, equipping young people to live out Christian faith, sportsmanship, and servant leadership.
The I AM THIRD Arena is a legacy of faith, of transformation, and of a community dedicated to putting God first, others second, and self third.