Image: The new Uytengsu Aquatics Center at USC

The University of Southern California's (USC) Athletic Department has received an US$8m (EUR6.1m, £4.9m) donation towards the US institution's proposed new aquatics complex.

Former student-athlete Wilfred "Fred" Uytengsu - who graduated in 1983 - gifted the cash to fund the ELS Architecture and Urban Design-designed Uytengsu Aquatics Center.

Facilities at the new complex will include a dry-land diving training area; a dive tower; men's and women's changing rooms; coaches' offices; and a multi-purpose room.

A stadium capable of accommodating 2,500 spectators is also included in the proposals, while the venue's swimming pool will honour coach Peter Daland at the request of Uytengsu.

USC president C L Max Nikias said: "The USC community takes such profound pride in its student-athletes, and Mr Uytengsu's gift sends a strong message of support."

Uytengsu added: "It is my hope that future Trojan swimmers, divers and water polo players will benefit from the new Uytengsu Aquatics Center and help keep these programmes among the best in the US."

Details: www.usc.edu

Image: ELS Architecture