Daily Digs: Northwood University Breaks Ground on New Athletics Field, Huntington's Athletics Facility Upgrades, and More!

Distinguished community members joined students, faculty, staff, and alumni for a ceremonial groundbreaking for a new multi-purpose athletic field on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at Northwood University.

This transformative project will redevelop the existing soccer pitch on Naegele Drive — formerly known as Dean Field — into a state-of-the-art, multi-use facility that 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 project will include a new press box and field lighting, which will enhance the game-day and training experience.

Northwood University President Kent MacDonald stated the project transcends athletics, representing an investment in student success, campus life, and community connection.

During Tuesday’s groundbreaking ceremony, Midland Mayor Maureen Donker agreed.

“This project reinforces how much Northwood really cares about being a strong community partner – and that’s incredibly important to us,” she said. “…This is going to be a place to grow, connect, and thrive together.” [Northwood University]

Huntington University student-athletes and the community now have access to a new, upgraded facility.

The Thwaits Athletic Center, which is part of the overall campus athletic campus, is named in honor of Ryan and Amy Thwaits, who gave a $2 million lead gift towards the project. It features a full-size wood floor community gym for intramurals and team practices as well as a fitness center for all students.

“People who came before me invested in Huntington so that I could have a fantastic college experience and athletic opportunities,” Ryan said at the time of making the gift. “Now it’s my turn to do the same for the next generation of Foresters. I want them to have success at the highest level, and this is my way of making that happen.” [Inside Indiana Business]

Monterey Peninsula College is celebrating major improvements to its athletic and fitness facilities.

Upgrades include surfaced tennis and pickleball courts, renovated softball and baseball fields, new fitness center locker rooms and modernized gym facilities.

Two voter-approved measures funded this $31 million investment. [KSBW]

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