Texas Wesleyan’s athletic program took a giant leap this week with the formal opening of the Moritz Fieldhouse, marking a defining moment for the evolution of university athletics, officials say.
The state-of-the-art facility is designed to serve as a home base for football, flag football, soccer, and track and field with dedicated locker rooms, meeting spaces, and amenities.
“This facility changes everything for our athletes,” said Athletic Director Ricky Dotson in a statement. “It gives our teams a central home where they can train, prepare, and build camaraderie.
“More importantly, it shows our current and future student-athletes that Texas Wesleyan is fully invested in their success academically, athletically, and personally.”
Moritz Dealerships provided the signature gift to begin construction. John David Moritz, president of the dealership, was in attendance at the ribbon-cutting.
Said Moritiz: “The fieldhouse affirms our commitment to the students, athletes, and staff of Texas Wesleyan. We’re proud to stand alongside the university.”
The opening coincides with the university’s 135th birthday. Wesleyan is the oldest university in Fort Worth.
“The Moritz Fieldhouse embodies our belief that excellence begins with opportunity,” university President Emily Messer said.
Wesleyan now boasts perhaps the nicest — certainly one of the nicest — athletics facilities of this scale in the NAIA. One day they’ll be able to say the same for its planned football stadium.
The completion and opening marks another step in a football stadium on campus. Stadium turf and lights have been installed. The university will next begin building permanent stadium seating to create a true home-field experience.
“I’m thankful for our administration, alumni, and donors who helped make this possible,” said football coach Brad Sherrod. “It’s on us to honor that by how we play and take care of what’s been given to us.
“This is a big step forward, but we can’t stop here. We’re still growing, and there’s more to come.”