Loyola Academy, Wilmette

Loyola Academy gym, in Wilmette on Jan. 5, 2023. Part of the photo series Illinois’ Best High School Gyms; Illinois non-varsity high school game between the Antioch and Loyola on Jan. 5, 2023.  (Photo copyright of Vincent D. Johnson)

A two-tiered gym with a party deck

Loyola’s main gym falls into the category of gym I call “two-tiered.” Picture an upside-down wedding cake, with the top of the cake being the court and the bottom layer being a permanent balcony area. While most two-tiered gyms have bleachers on that second level, Loyola is just a large open space only both sides and over one baseline. The area has tables and chairs set up and serves as a more social area for parents and adults during the games.