A rendering of Heidelberg University’s new Fieldhouse
TIFFIN – Heidelberg University is about to embark on the largest and one of the most transformational projects in its history. University officials have announced the construction of a new Student Athletics, Academic, and Recreation Center, to be built on campus.
The new facility, affectionally called the Fieldhouse, will be located on the site of the current Senior Apartments on Main Street. Construction is slated to begin soon with a planned completion and opening in the Fall of 2025.
It’s a $28 million investment in student success that is fully donor-funded and includes the single largest estate gift in Heidelberg’s history.
“The next era of investment in our students starts today,” said Heidelberg Athletic Director Greg Cooper. “The Student Athletics, Academic, and Recreation Center will transform and energize our campus in so many ways.
’Berg officials say the new Fieldhouse will be a game-changer for Heidelberg. When completed, it will encompass 110,000 square feet and will feature:
• three indoor basketball courts (one wood)
• a 200-meter competition-level track and field space
• a turf field for field sports and marching band
• a state-of-the-art training room and locker rooms
• classrooms for exercise science, health science, sport management and the graduate athletic training program
• leadership development and team-building space
• a lobby for events and social gatherings
• an upper-level mezzanine for events and 2-sided viewing
Donors have already given $13 million in cash with another $13 million pledged. There’s about $1 million remaining to raise to reach the $28 million projected cost.
Donors recognize the importance of such a facility in today’s higher education landscape.
