MACON, Ga. – Bill and Paula Betts, parents of former Mercer men’s soccer standout Will Betts, have signed on to provide a lead gift for the construction of the Betts Family Press Box at Bear Field.
The initial commitment marks the lead gift in plans for a new multi-level press box, team seating and storage area to be built on the southwest sideline of the field. The multi-use facility will accommodate both Mercer’s men’s and women’s teams and bear the Betts family name.
“We are blessed to be a part of the Mercer family and we are grateful for the opportunity to support Mercer University and the Mercer Bears soccer program,” Bill Betts said.
The press box marks the first upgrade to Bear Field since the facility underwent a $250,000 renovation in the summer of 2009. Construction of the structure will be completed by kickoff of the 2015 season.
“We’re extremely appreciative for the continued support we receive from the Betts family,” Mercer head men’s soccer coach Brad Ruzzo said. “This facility will help us take the next step in our recruiting efforts and provide our student-athletes with a first-class experience at Bear Field.”
Will Betts (Mercer, 2013) was a four-year starter for Ruzzo at midfielder, helping preside over one of the most successful four-year periods in program history. Betts’ teams piled up 37 wins, twice advancing to the finals of the Atlantic Sun Conference Tournament. Betts secured a series of prestigious awards throughout his collegiate career, including two A-Sun Scholar Athlete of the Year awards and Capital One Academic All-America first-team recognition as a senior.
“Will Betts was a shining example of what it means to be a Mercer student-athlete,” Mercer Director of Athletics Jim Cole said. “There’s no more deserving name, than Betts, to grace this facility.”
Both of Mercer’s teams are coming off championship campaigns in the school’s first season as a member of the Southern Conference. The men’s squad went 14-7 (8-2 SoCon) to capture the Southern Conference regular-season title, while the women’s team was 14-6-2 (6-1-2 SoCon) and claimed the SoCon tournament championship.
Together, the teams have built one of the nation’s strongest home-field advantages, combining for a 16-1-1 record at Bear Field in 2014 and a 51-17-8 ledger at the venue over the last four seasons.
“Upgrading Bear Field in this manner will completely change the look and feel of the facility while enhancing game-day atmosphere,” said Brian Gerrity, Executive Director of the Mercer Athletic Foundation. “The Betts family has always been loyal supporters of our program, and this gift is a testament to their generosity.”
Opportunities remain for contributions toward improvements to Bear Field. For more information, contact Gerrity at 478-301-4003.