The Case for the Indoor Athletics Complex

The Future of Ferris Athletics

At Ferris State University, we build champions—on the field, in the classroom, and throughout life. Bulldogs are known for their grit, leadership, and relentless determination. It’s in our DNA, rooted in the inclusive, ambitious vision of our founders, Woodbridge and Helen Ferris, who in 1884 established a school committed to the education of all people—regardless of gender, background, race, or ethnicity.

As Woodbridge Ferris said, “To realize their best possibilities is the aim and object of education.”

Today, Ferris State student-athletes compete, train, learn, lead, and grow with that same purpose: to realize their best possibilities—as individuals, teammates, and champions.

A Championship-Caliber Vision: The Indoor Athletics Complex

Ferris State in 2021 approved a $15.3 million investment in training and conditioning facilities, culminating in the opening of the Center for Athletics Performance. Now, to support our 400 student-athletes and 17 varsity teams—and create space for growth—we are launching the next phase of athletic development:

The Indoor Athletics Complex: This multi-phase, $61.7 million project will transform the athletics footprint of Ferris State, building world-class training, competition, and fan facilities.

A Legacy of Excellence, A Future of Opportunity

Ferris State’s tradition of athletic excellence runs deep. The university’s first championship teams were women’s basketball players competing in the 1910s. Today, the Bulldogs compete in 17 NCAA Division II sports, from football and volleyball to track and soccer—and boast a Division I men’s hockey team. The Bulldogs are frequent contenders in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference and NCAA tournaments.

Since 2014, Ferris teams have made 85 NCAA Tournament and 57 GLIAC Championship appearances.

In 2024–2025 Alone:

• Football earned a third NCAA DII national title in four years.
• Softball returned to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2013.
• Women’s volleyball went undefeated in the regular season and reached the NCAA DII Elite Eight.
• Both men’s and women’s track and field posted record-breaking seasons.
• Both tennis teams qualified for the NCAA DII Tournament.

The Plan: Building the Future in Two Phases

Phase 1

The Indoor Athletics Complex includes a 134,000-square-foot indoor facility with indoor track and field, cheer and STUNT competition space, indoor practice field, all-weather training space for all DII sports and enhanced parking in West and South lots.

Phase 2

Athletic support and stadium improvements including 42,000-square-foot support building featuring team, coach, and locker rooms, athletic trainer space, offices, suites, meeting rooms, concessions, ticketing, and restrooms. Plus, upgrades to Top Taggart Field include stadium lighting and turf replacement, east side bleacher replacement and plaza improvements.

Why We Need This Now

Despite our championship track record, Bulldogs face real obstacles:

The Impact: Real Champions, Real Results

This is more than a facilities upgrade. It’s an investment in people—our student-athletes, our fans, our community.

The Indoor Athletics Complex will:

• Improve athlete performance and reduce injury risk through modern, safe training environments.
• Expand access to new sports and year-round activity.
• Enhance fan experience with upgraded amenities.
• Increase sponsorship visibility and revenue potential.
• Strengthen recruitment and retention by showcasing a championship-caliber environment.
• Unify the campus and community around a shared symbol of pride, purpose, and potential.

Championship culture drives momentum. And momentum demands investment.

Community Engagement: A Hub for Connection and Activity

This new athletic complex is more than just a space for student-athletes—it will be a game-changer for the entire community. Imagine a vibrant, year-round destination where students and local residents come together to play, connect, and celebrate. From club and intramural sports to student-led events and organization activities, this expansive indoor venue opens the door to endless possibilities.

Local residents will have access to the indoor track and multipurpose event spaces, creating new opportunities for wellness, recreation, and shared experiences. Much like the David Eisler Center, this facility will become a cornerstone of campus and community life—a place where memories are made, bonds are built, and pride runs deep.

This isn't just an athletic facility. It's a bold investment in community, connection, and the future of our region.

Financial Needs and Timeline

Following years of planning and expert design by Integrated Design Solutions and Granger Construction, we’re ready to move forward. The full project cost is $61,756,906, with Phase 1 potentially breaking ground in 2026 and Phase 2 targeted for 2028.

This is a bold investment—but one backed by history and driven by opportunity.

Let’s Build Champions. Together

We are inviting alumni, partners, parents, and fans to join us in building the next generation of Bulldogs. Your support for the Indoor Athletics Complex is a commitment to Ferris State’s legacy, mission, and future. It’s a declaration that champions aren’t just born—they’re built.

Together, we’ll keep Ferris State a place where students thrive and dreams become opportunities.

To learn more or make your gift, please contact

Dr. Kathy Mullins
Vice President of University Advancement and Marketing
Ferris State University and The Ferris Foundation
(231) 591-2066
[email protected]