Project Includes New Soccer Pitch, Lacrosse Field, Press Box, Field Lighting, and More
Members of the public are invited to a ceremonial groundbreaking for a new multi-purpose athletic field at Northwood University. The event will take place from 4:30 to 5 p.m. April 29 at the project site on Naegele Drive within the Gerstacker Athletic Complex, which currently houses the baseball, softball, tennis, and soccer fields.
This transformative project will redevelop the existing soccer pitch — formerly known as Dean Field — into a state-of-the-art, multi-use facility. Once completed, the space will accommodate Northwood University Men’s and Women’s Soccer and Men’s and Women’s Lacrosse, in addition to intramural sports, summer camps, youth clinics, and community events. The field will include field lighting and a new press box, further enhancing the game-day and training experience.
“This project is about far more than just athletics — it’s an investment in student success, campus life, and community connection,” stated Northwood University President Kent MacDonald. “Facilities like this serve as a hub for activity, leadership development, and engagement, which are all central to Northwood’s mission of developing free-enterprise leaders who drive global economic and social progress.”
Northwood Athletics Director Jeff Curtis noted the new project is an important development for student-athletes and athletic programming.
“It allows us to better support our growing lacrosse programs and soccer teams, while also creating opportunities for more intramural and recreational activities that benefit our entire student body,” Curtis added.
In addition to serving Northwood’s student population, the field is designed to be a resource for the broader community.
“This field will become a point of pride not only for Northwood, but for the entire Midland region,” said Chief Development and Engagement Officer Justin Marshall. “From hosting youth camps and clinics to providing a space for community events, this project reinforces Northwood’s commitment to being a strong community partner.”
RSVP for April 29 Groundbreaking Ceremony
The April 29 groundbreaking event is open to members of the public. Attendees are asked to RSVP in advance at https://forms.northwood.edu/groundbreaking-rsvp/.
Leave a Legacy Through Naming Opportunities
Naming opportunities for the new multi-purpose athletic field are available. Interested donors may contact Athletics Development Officer Leonard Haynes at , 989-837-4399, or 989-488-8332 to learn more.
Those who share a passion for liberty, the American free-enterprise system, and the development of future leaders can explore other ways to support Northwood University by visiting https://www.northwood.edu/advancement/give/ or call (989) 837-4356 to make a meaningful impact.
