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A Game Changer for Virginia Wesleyan Softball
Eleanor and Henry Watts Field House is completed for championship softball
University News | November 21, 2023
Virginia Beach, VA – The Virginia Wesleyan University (VWU) community is celebrating the recent completion of the Eleanor and Henry Watts Field House, a significant enhancement to its athletic facilities, particularly benefiting the university's three-time national championship softball program. Situated at the heart of Tom and Betty Broyles Field in TowneBank Park, the Watts Field House honors Trustee Emeritus D. Henry Watts and his wife Eleanor, who have been longstanding supporters of Virginia Wesleyan. 
The field house is thoughtfully designed to cater to the needs of both the athletes and their fans. It features state-of-the-art locker rooms for the champion Marlin softball team, providing a professional and supportive environment for the student-athletes to prepare and regroup. Additionally, the facility includes restroom facilities for spectators, enhancing the overall experience for students and fans attending the games.
"Opening the Eleanor and Henry Watts Field House marks a transformative moment for our softball program at Virginia Wesleyan," said Head Softball Coach Brandon Elliott. "We're incredibly grateful for the Watts' continued investment in our program, and I am confident that this field house will play a pivotal role in continuing our legacy of excellence here at VWU."
D. Henry Watts, D.B.A., a respected member of the VWU Board of Trustees since 1989, has been instrumental in the University's growth. Their contributions extend beyond the athletic field, with notable support in various sectors of the University, including the Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center and the Marlin Athletic Fund.
The opening of the Eleanor and Henry Watts Field House is a significant stride forward for VWU softball, providing a space that matches the team's prestigious status. It stands as a symbol of the Watts family's deep-rooted commitment and generous support, which has been vital in propelling Virginia Wesleyan toward new heights in both athletics and academia.