Athletic Director Bubba Cunningham, along with the Rams Club, should work to renovate Fetzer Field. Rather than putting the emphasis on potential Smith Center renovations, Cunningham and other athletic department officials should shift their attention to an athletic facility that hasn’t seen improvements of late.
Fetzer Field is home to UNC’s track and field, lacrosse and soccer programs. Nonrevenue sports are often left by the wayside, but it is important to keep them in mind.
Fetzer Field last saw renovations in 1988 when aluminum bleachers, lights and other amenities were added along with a reworking of the playing surface.
In the meantime, Kenan Stadium, Carmichael Arena, and the Smith Center have seen noticeable additions.
By fundraising a project for Fetzer Field through the Rams Club, sports that usually aren’t as popular could generate more publicity. Students are more likely to attend sporting events at a new and improved facility.
What better way to reward UNC’s women’s soccer team on its 21st NCAA Championship than funding renovations for its home turf? The men’s soccer team also won a championship in 2011. It seems about time for a well-deserved upgrade.
But we shouldn’t forget the University’s top-25 men’s and women’s lacrosse programs who would also benefit from the changes.
The University and the Rams Club must appreciate what these teams have done — and continue to do — for the University.
Fetzer Field should be a priority for renovation, especially when considering the number of teams that play there.
