Bobby and Wendy GoodfriendTennessee Wesleyan University is excited to announce a significant expansion and renovation of its baseball facilities, home to the Bulldogs Baseball Team, consistently ranked in the top ten of the NAIA National poll. Thanks to the generous donation from Dr. Bobby Goodfriend, TWU Board of Trustees Chair and avid supporter of Tennessee Wesleyan, and his wife Wendy, the facility will be transformed into a first-class field and stadium. This project will enhance facilities for student-athletes and fans alike, further strengthening Tennessee Wesleyan’s commitment to excellence in athletics and student development.
The project will include state-of-the-art field lighting, a new scoreboard with video technology, and an expanded outfield with a new outfield wall. To enhance the fan experience, additional improvements will be made to the concourse area, including a renovated press box and concessions area, additional restroom facilities, and an expanded seating area. Improvements will position Tennessee Wesleyan to be a host site for the opening round of the NAIA National Tournament. If awarded, such a tournament would be a big win for the University and the local economy.
Dr. Goodfriend, an Athens native, former Chief Executive Officer of Goody’s Family Clothing, Inc., and whose family has been supporters of Tennessee Wesleyan for decades, shared his excitement about the project. “As proud supporters of Tennessee Wesleyan University, Wendy and I are honored to lend our support to this project. Coach Berry and his staff have a wonderful program, and I am hopeful the bleachers will be full to cheer on the Bulldogs when the renovations are complete.”
“This is a major event for Tennessee Wesleyan and our baseball program,” said Dr. Tyler Forrest, president of TWU. “Bobby and Wendy’s substantial investment in our facilities demonstrates their shared vision of support for our student-athletes and our dedication to providing them with the best resources to succeed on and off the field.”
Donny Mayfield, TWU’s athletic director, emphasized the impact this expansion will have on both recruitment and the overall student-athlete experience. “These enhancements will allow us to attract top talent and provide our athletes with a first-class environment to compete. We are incredibly grateful to Dr. Goodfriend and Wendy for their support of TWU Baseball.”
Dr Jack BowlingDr. Jack Bowling, the name currently associated with the field, will be placed on a new concourse, a fitting tribute as Bowling was usually seen in his folding chair sitting along the fence cheering on Bulldog athletes on many fields and courts.
Construction is set to begin in May and is expected to be completed in the late summer or early fall.
Bobby Goodfriend Field at Athens Insurance Stadium will be officially unveiled at a special dedication ceremony, with details to be announced in the coming months.
