This page is no longer being updated and remains online for informational and historical purposes only. The information is accurate as of the last page update.
For questions about page contents, contact the Communications Division.
Lafayette has announced the construction of a state-of-the-art indoor batting facility to be built at the Metzgar Fields Athletic Complex. The facility, to be named Morel Field House, will be used by the baseball and softball programs.
The generosity of Don Morel ’79, a former Lafayette pitcher, allowed for the construction of the facility, which is scheduled to be ready for use by the start of the 2011 baseball and softball seasons. Ground will be broken in September 2010.
“This facility gives the baseball and softball programs a dedicated space to hit year-round during inclement weather and the evenings, which was previously difficult, if not impossible, for our programs,” Lafayette head baseball coach Joe Kinney said. “We will be forever grateful for Don’s generosity and support of the baseball and softball programs, as well as the athletic department and Lafayette College. This gift is a testament to the amazing support the Lafayette community enjoys year in and year from our alumni and I am truly honored to enjoy the continued support we receive.”
Lafayette Director of Athletics Bruce McCutcheon also offered his appreciation of Morel’s generosity.
“The transformation of the Metzgar Field Athletic Complex continues with the superb addition of the Morel Field House,” he said. “Don’s generosity continues a tradition of alumni devotion to their alma mater that enables our College to be special. I know I speak for the generations of baseball and softball student-athletes who will utilize this fantastic facility when I say thank you.”
The facility, to be situated between the existing baseball and softball playing fields, will be an 80X96-ft. building (7,680 sq. ft.) that features four batting tunnels, an Astroturf surface, four indoor pitching mounds, four hitting mats and three divider nets. There will also be a 21X80-ft. area used for storage, warm-up and video analysis.
Morel is the chairman and CEO of West Pharmaceutical Services in Lionville, Pa. Prior to his tenure with West Pharmaceutical, he conducted research with NASA and was a 1989 finalist in the NASA astronaut selection process as a mission specialist. He serves on the Lafayette Board of Trustees.