Gardner-Webb Breaks Ground on New Soccer Field House

Dedicated Home for Men’s and Women’s Soccer Teams Funded by Generous GWU Supporters

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb University recently broke ground on a new Soccer Field House that will provide locker rooms, team meeting space, coaches’ offices and an athletic training space for the men’s and women’s soccer programs. This new facility was funded by generous donations from GWU supporters.

“This will be a dedicated home for our Runnin’ Bulldogs as they compete at the highest level in the Big South Conference and beyond,” praised Gardner-Webb President Dr. William Downs at the groundbreaking ceremony. “In case you missed the memo, we are committed to building championship soccer programs here at Gardner-Webb. That commitment started with the addition of new coaching staffs on both the men’s and women’s sides. And it continues with the enhancement and elevation of our soccer facilities. A new field house will not by itself win you a championship, but it will help recruit and retain championship-caliber players.”

The soccer construction project follows several building and improvement programs on the GWU campus, such as the new amphitheater, new indoor baseball facility, and the main dining facility with a major new extension. In addition, Gardner-Webb has also opened three new campus restaurants in the past year.

Downs expressed his thanks to everyone who contributed to the project—both in vision and money. “This is one of those rare occasions when you have a major lead gift and the donors want to remain anonymous,” he shared. “We respect that, but we nonetheless want to make sure that our heartfelt thanks are heard and received. This new building would not be possible without the generosity of friends of the University and supporters of our soccer programs. I want to thank our Office of Advancement, led by Vice President Nate Evans, for the good work they have put in to secure the investments that will bring this dream to reality.”

Vice President and Director of Athletics added his gratitude for those who helped make the new facility a reality for the players and coaches. “We are grateful to each and every person who gave it their all on the soccer pitch while demonstrating the courage and impeccable character, which has helped to lay a foundation from which this new fieldhouse will be built,” he asserted. “Our history, combined with the generosity of our present donors and alumni will forge a future that few would dare to dream, yet, we believe.” 

Gardner-Webb University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at Gardner-Webb.edu.