Community Celebrates New Project, Which Will Include New Soccer Pitch, Lacrosse Field, Press Box, Field Lighting, 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 Athletics Director Jeff Curtis noted the project will support Northwood’s growing lacrosse programs and soccer teams while also creating opportunities for more intramural and recreational activities that benefit the entire student body.
The new multi-use field will be located within the Gerstacker Athletic Complex, which currently houses the baseball, softball, tennis, and soccer fields. The new project offers multiple naming opportunities. Interested donors may contact Athletics Development Officer Leonard Haynes at , 989-837-4399, or 989-488-8332 to learn more.
