GROVE CITY, Pa. – One of the hallmarks of retiring Grove City College President Paul J. McNulty’s tenure has been his support for athletics and their value to the campus community.
He and his wife, Brenda, are regulars in the stands, cheering on student-athletes and fostering the “Wolverines Together” culture that has developed over the 11 years of his presidency.
Athletics were an early priority of McNulty’s administration, and investments in personnel and programs have led to success in the Presidents’ Athletic Conference and beyond. So far this year, Grove City teams have won 10 of 21 conference championships and been the runner-up in three others.
In recognition of their impact on the athletic program, the college’s board of trustees decided to name the next step in upgrading the college’s athletic facilities in honor of the McNultys.
The McNulty Athletic Center will be built on Upper Campus as part of the ongoing Impact 150: The Anniversary Campaign for Grove City College. The McNultys provided the lead gift for the $5 million project, which is expected to be completed by 2027.
“Paul McNulty’s legacy includes a renewed focus on varsity athletics and the encouragement of student-athletes to embody excellence and faithfulness and a fierce competitiveness in pursuit of conference championships,” said Edward D. Breen, trustees chairman. “It has resulted in a record number of student-athletes, PAC championships, a national ranking for Wolverine football, among other distinctions, and a stronger campus community.”
He cited the football team’s turnaround, from a 0-33 record in 2017 to 20-3 and back-to-back trips to the NCAA Division III playoffs the past two years as testament to the hard work of the players, the leadership of coaches and McNulty’s vision.
“Brenda and I are deeply touched by this recognition,” McNulty said. “We’re passionate about athletics because we’re passionate about the mission of Grove City College. Our student-athletes are stewards of their talents, conduct themselves with selflessness and self-discipline and embrace a faith-first team culture. These values enrich our entire campus. The indoor track is an especially exciting feature because distance running is what brought me to GCC 50 years ago.”
Plans for the McNulty Athletic Center call for building a permanent indoor facility with an inflated dome roof between Don Lyle Field and Cherry Street. The 50,000-square-foot dome will include a five-lane indoor track, a durable and flexible rubberized surface for a variety of sports, weight training and strength and conditioning equipment, restrooms and more. The athletic center will be able to accommodate intramural programs and varsity sports throughout the year.
The multiuse, air-supported structure will also provide a venue for – and revenue from – high school, club sports and other events, including indoor graduation.
Pictured at top: Grove City College President Paul J. McNulty and his wife, Brenda, join cheerleaders in encouraging the Wolverine football team.