Augusta University’s athletic campus has undergone major upgrades in recent months, and they are already having a significant impact on athletes, fans and alumni.
With renovations to Christenberry Fieldhouse, Jaguars Field and other key facilities, the improvements are shaping the future of AU athletics.
The projects, which began in the summer of 2024, are part of a strategic vision to improve both the athletic experience and recruitment efforts.
“It’s been wonderful to see many of our former student-athletes return to campus with their family members to see the exciting changes firsthand,” AU Athletic Director Ryan Erlacher said.
The upgrades are already making an impact on recruitment for baseball, softball, basketball and volleyball.
“For us to be nationally competitive and recruit the very best, we need to offer first-class, state-of-the-art facilities,” Erlacher said. “We’ve received a lot of positive feedback from prospective student-athletes and their parents. It’s great to see the university investing in its athletic program.”
The enhancements help AU position itself as a strong contender in Division II athletics, offering amenities that reflect its commitment to excellence.
Upgrades included the exterior of the Christenberry Fieldhouse, which underwent a full transformation for the first time since it opened its doors in 1991. The modern design prominently displays the Augusta Athletics ‘Jag Head’ logo and features installations that highlight Augusta’s branded color palate, according to a Sept. 21, 2023, article at augustajags.com.
Also, the fieldhouse mezzanines were reimagined, and a new sound system and additional lighting were added. The Alvin and Yvette Harris Sports Performance Center, constructed in the upper mezzanine on the south side of Christenberry Fieldhouse, will be equipped with essential fitness machines, free weights, and other tools to help student-athletes boost strength and enhance performance, while also providing appropriate training and conditioning to help prevent injuries.
The Christenberry Fieldhouse wasn’t the only sports venue to see improvements.
A new baseball stadium will feature 420 seats, with more than half are comfortable chairbacks, not bleachers. It also features handicapped seating, according to a July 30, 2024, article at augustajags.com
A state-of-the-art press box at the top of the stadium and the expansion of the current concessions stand area as well as an enhanced Champions Walk will serve as a welcoming focal point for both the baseball and softball fields, the article continued.
The renovations have also contributed to a rise in fan attendance and engagement at games.
“We’ve seen an increase in fan engagement this year, something we expect to see even more of as the facility projects wrap up,” Erlacher said. “I think curiosity is bringing some fans into our home athletics events this year; many want to see firsthand the projects we are working on.”
With baseball and softball seasons underway, Erlacher expects even larger and more energetic crowds.
“The improvements at the baseball field will help us create a better experience for fans,” Erlacher said. “My concern now is having enough room for everyone, which is a great problem to have.”
The J. Fleming Norvell Golf House also received a makeover, home of the defending Southland Conference champion men’s and women’s golf teams. The project included new furniture, flooring, fresh paint and a comprehensive branding update. A standout addition is a hand-painted mural by artist Jason Craig, dedicated to the 2010 and 2011 men’s national championship teams.
Situated next to Forest Hills Golf Club, the 4,000-square-foot clubhouse now stands as one of the premier practice facilities in collegiate golf. It features three offices, a conference room, locker rooms, a kitchenette, a reception and meeting space, and computerized practice areas. The renovations not only improve the functionality of the facility but also reinforce Augusta University’s commitment to providing top-tier resources for its golf programs.
While most of the renovations are nearing completion, the new multipurpose skybox suite at Christenberry Fieldhouse is still under construction. The space will be managed by the president’s office and used to host donors and non-gameday events.
Erlacher noted that the construction process hasn’t been without its challenges.
“Two snow events and a major hurricane. But the crews working on our projects have done a great job getting back on schedule,” he said.
The upgrades are part of a broader strategic plan for AU athletics.
“These facility upgrades are just part of that strategic vision, but a very important part that has given hope to many of our student-athletes, coaches, staff and supporters,” Erlacher said.
Erlacher also emphasized the importance of the new sports performance center, which will provide much-needed training space and support improved athletic performance.
“With this new space, we’ll see a significant increase in training conditions and team performance,” he said. “It will play a vital role in our continued competitive success.”
Looking ahead, Erlacher said the athletic department remains focused on completing the current projects but hinted at potential future upgrades.
“We have a few ideas up our sleeves, but for now, we are laser-focused on finishing everything we’re working on,” he said.
Jaxon Garner is the Editor in Chief of Augusta University’s Bell Ringer.
