The College broke ground May 1 of the first phase of its Athletic Complex expansion in front of a packed crowd inside the Pfiel Center.

This milestone represents a new era for Holy Cross athletics and student experience, as the College invests in modern, competitive facilities to serve current, future Saints and the community’s athletic programs.

“What we’ve achieved here in South Bend and Holy Cross College reflects what’s possible in South Bend when people work together for a greater good, when they set aside egos and they pay it forward for the next generation,” President Marco J. Clark said. ““This new space will undoubtedly become a hub of energy, sportsmanship, and community, a place where students grow in excellence and purpose and enjoy.”

The enhancements—scheduled to debut in Fall 2025—will focus on the soccer stadium and include:

  • The first-ever stadium lighting system to allow for night game experiences for the athletic program and neighboring community programs
  • A new electronic scoreboard with integrated speaker system to allow fans to get the latest game information
  • A new chain link fence enclosing the field

“This initial phase includes several exciting upgrades to the soccer field that will significantly enhance the student-athlete experience, allow for added intramural opportunities, and improve the game-day atmosphere. These additions reflect our commitment to creating vibrant spaces where students, families, alumni, and friends can gather, cheer, and celebrate together,” said Robert Pastoor, Associate Vice President for Student Engagement and Director of Athletics.

These improvements will significantly elevate the student-athlete experience and create a more dynamic game-day experience for the entire Holy Cross community. They are made possible by generous benefactors, including the 1st Source Foundation.

Men’s soccer captain Michael Miller said, “With the new scoreboard and sound system, better lighting, new goals, and fencing, everything about how we train and play is going to be elevated. It’s not just about us on the field—it’s about making the game more exciting for everyone watching, and bringing more school spirit to the entire Holy Cross community. These upgrades aren’t just about the new facilities—they’re about creating a place where we can do our best, where our classmates can come out and support us, and where we feel truly backed by our school.”

His coach, Omar Gallo, looked around and saw alumni return to rejoice in the developments. It was a proud moment for him and so many in the community.

“They laid the foundation and allowed others to build,” Gallo said. “This is what it’s all about — leaving a place better than you found it.”