On Jan. 31, GHC unveiled its new athletic complex during the opening day festivities at the new baseball and softball fields located between the Savoy Museum and the Cartersville campus.
“It was a great day for Georgia Highlands College and a great day for all of our past, current and future student-athletes and coaches,” Athletic Director, Brandan Harrell said. “We were extremely thankful to all the students, faculty and staff, as well as members of our community who showed up to share this special day with us.”
Player #15 swings the bat, aiming to advance the Chargers.
Student Activities also hosted a free cookout featuring hotdogs, hamburgers, chips, cookies and drinks and gave away free T-shirts.
The complex, made possible by the GHC Foundation’s $12.2 million donation, boasts cutting-edge features, including synthetic turf, spacious dugouts, comfortable seating, advanced lighting, superior sound systems and state-of-the-art press boxes.
“My favorite thing about the fields is that they were built for college athletics,” Harrell said, “When you walk in, you feel like you are walking into a collegiate event. Our student-athletes deserve that.”
Opening day was more than just a showcase of facilities; it celebrated the spirit and competitiveness of the teams.
“Game one was awesome to see because our players came out fired up and ready to go. Freshman Pitcher Grace Kendrick gave us a dominant start to the season. She was able to record two victories for us on the mound,” Tucker Hughes, Head Softball Coach said. “Multiple players had great days at the plate. Hayden Joyner, Aliza Martinez, Ally Graden and Haley Dishmon recorded multiple hits throughout the day, including game-winners.”
The day also marked historic victories as GHC swept baseball and softball doubleheaders. “Our teams performed great,” Harrell said. “Those memories will last a lifetime.”
However, the day had its trials. “The one negative take away from opening day was on the first pitch in the history of that baseball field, Trevor [Lovett] dives for a ball and gets injured,” Harrell said. “We are extremely thankful that the injury was not worse, and he will be back in the lineup sooner than later.”
The opening of the complex is more than a milestone; it’s a declaration of the college’s commitment to excellence in athletics and academics.
Players celebrate their opening day victory at the fields.
“As a department, we are grateful to all our administrators and community partners [who] made the new complex a reality,” Harrell said. “It is truly one of the best two-year college facilities anywhere. It is a dream come true.”
As the Chargers look forward to hosting more games and welcoming fans, the new complex stands as a symbol of growth, opportunity and excellence.
“Having the chance to get on our home field and play in front of a nice crowd allowed our girls to play with confidence,” Hughes said. “The atmosphere was electric during the games. We are looking forward to the remainder of the season.”
