Catawba College to begin Phase 2 of Newman Park baseball field improvements
Published 12:07 am Wednesday, October 29, 2025
Catawba College News Service
SALISBURY — In a Tuesday release, Catawba College announced the launch of Phase II of its plan to enhance Newman Park, ushering in a new era for the historic ballpark.
“Building upon the transformative upgrades completed in Phase I, the next round of improvements will include a beautifully designed grandstand that pays homage to the original architecture of the 1926 stadium, an addition with modern restrooms and full ADA accessibility, a state-of-the-art press box and broadcast booths, and an inviting entrance plaza to welcome fans,” the release noted. “This phase is designed to further elevate the fan and player experience.”
According to the release, a ceremonial kickoff for Phase II will take place on Nov. 1 at 12:30 p.m. Gates will open at noon with Catawba’s baseball team taking on Guilford Tech Community College (GTCC) coached by 2017 Catawba alum and former baseball player, TJ Wharton, starting at 1 p.m. Ballpark appetizers will be available. Fans and supporters are invited to join the Catawba community.
“In recognition of longtime Head Coach Jim Gantt’s extraordinary leadership and lasting impact on Catawba baseball, the new grandstands will be named in his honor,” the release said. “The Gantt Grandstands will celebrate his decades of excellence, mentorship and championship tradition — serving as a lasting tribute to a coach who has shaped generations of student-athletes and elevated Catawba Baseball to national prominence.”
Phase II reportedly picks up where Phase I improvements, completed in 2023, left off.
That first phase “delivered a full field replacement with state-of-the-art synthetic turf, Major League-style dugouts with enhanced player amenities, a modern scoreboard with video capabilities, expanded fencing and safety netting, and upgraded lighting for evening activities,” the release said. “Together, these enhancements solidify Newman Park as a premier collegiate baseball venue, one that remains steeped in tradition while offering world-class functionality and comfort to players, media and spectators alike.”
Construction will start in summer 2026 with an anticipated completion of January 2027.
Newman Park Phase II is one of several major capital improvement projects underway at Catawba College, including a new residence hall, the reimagination of the former coal-burning power plant into a dynamic student hub, major renovations of two residence halls, and a closed-loop geoexchange heating and cooling system that will connect 90 percent of the campus infrastructure. For more information on these projects, go to www.catawba.edu/capitalprojects.
Supporters are invited to join in making this vision a reality. You can make a gift, by visiting catawba.edu/givenow or by calling the Development Office at 704-637-4394. Every contribution supports “Where Our Good Goes,” Catawba’s comprehensive campaign to strengthen Catawba’s campus and extend their impact for years to come — creating experiences and memories that will inspire future generations.