THE CAMPAIGN FOR
COUGAR ATHLETICS
As we pursued our own dream of athletic expansion, it became clear that our Soccer and Lacrosse Stadium would be bigger than MVNU. Much bigger. Providing modern practice and competition space to foster individual and team development — and serve as the foundation to build championship athletic programs — was just the beginning.
So much has transpired since we launched our vision of a Soccer and Lacrosse Stadium in 2018. We merged our dream into an even bigger endeavor — The Education Gateway — which has already resulted in major impacts on youth, high school, and collegiate athletics. Collaboration with various community partners led to the construction of incredible athletic facilities including Mount Vernon High School’s Energy Fieldhouse, the Knox County Foundation Community Fields, the Mount Vernon Nazarene University Trail, and of course our stadium.
With the completion of Phase 1, our soccer and lacrosse teams found a new home as well as an elevated game and competition experience with a turf field, lights, and scoreboard. They now have a more visible home field with more flexibility in scheduling. In addition, our partnership with the Mount Vernon YMCA and Mount Vernon Soccer Association places hundreds of young soccer players on the Knox County Community Fields several days a week during the soccer seasons increasing the activity and energy along The Education Gateway.
As we move closer to the opening of the Soccer and Lacrosse Stadium, our excitement is building to finally merge that elevated experience for our players and coaches with a brand-new experience for our spectators in a 500-seat stadium! The addition of locker rooms, restrooms, concession, a press box, patio seating, and more, will spark the excitement of the new and improved atmosphere.
Few communities embrace the collaborative spirit we have witnessed from the inception of this project. Generous donors have surrounded us with support in our $3.9 million pursuit of athletic expansion, including a matching gift of up to $1.4 million from Ariel Foundation. Your financial support of the stadium is an investment in MVNU, the educational and spiritual growth of our students, and the collaborative vision of a community that has embraced and supported our mission for over 50 years.
As of Feb. 22, 2022, we have raised 77 percent of our goal. You can make a difference and move us closer to our goal by taking advantage of our remaining naming opportunities or donating today.