News Summary
The UNC Asheville baseball program has officially broken ground on the Jeff Fox Hitting Facility. This facility, named in honor of former standout player Jeff Fox, will be a first-of-its-kind covered structure, enhancing training for student-athletes. The project is funded by alumni donations and community support, aiming to elevate the baseball program and ensure a lasting legacy for Fox, who significantly impacted the Bulldogs over his 35-year connection with the university.
Asheville, NC – The UNC Asheville baseball program has officially broken ground on the Jeff Fox Hitting Facility, a crucial development that will significantly improve the training environment for student-athletes. The groundbreaking ceremony took place on May 19, 2025, marking a monumental step forward for the program and its commitment to enhancing the overall student-athlete experience.
Janet R. Cone, the Director of Athletics at UNC Asheville, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, noting that it serves as a tribute to Jeff Fox, a former standout player for the Bulldogs and a symbol of excellence within the program. The facility will be the first covered hitting and pitching structure in the program’s history, providing players with vital resources to train across different weather conditions.
This project is made possible by generous donations from UNC Asheville alumni, along with the support of David E. Looper & Company, showcasing the community’s commitment to encouraging the growth and development of the baseball program. The importance of this initiative lies not only in its physical structure but also in its potential to nurture future talent through enhanced training opportunities.
Legacy of Jeff Fox
Jeff Fox, who passed away on March 16, 2021, due to COVID-19, left an indelible mark on the baseball program over his 35-year connection with UNC Asheville. He was not only renowned for his playing career, but he also went on to serve in the Secret Service, providing protection for Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush. His admirable character and values have made a lasting impact on those who knew him.
To honor his legacy, a No. 6 jersey is awarded annually to a player who exemplifies the same dedication, determination, and loyalty that Jeff Fox displayed throughout his life. Currently, the jersey is worn by senior Corbin Lanowitz, who expressed pride in representing Fox and highlighted the potential of the new facility as a significant advantage for future players.
Impact on the Program
Head Coach Scott Friedholm emphasized the importance of the groundbreaking ceremony, noting the significance of commemorating the day with Jeff Fox’s former teammates and family members by his side. The construction of the Jeff Fox Hitting Facility is set to create a state-of-the-art environment where players can hone their hitting and pitching skills, thereby directly contributing to the athletic success of the baseball program in upcoming seasons.
The new facility not only symbolizes a physical addition to the campus but also represents the pride and legacy of a beloved figure within the UNC Asheville baseball community. With its completion, the team looks forward to offering advanced training resources that will prepare student-athletes for the competitive demands of college baseball.
The commitment to honoring Jeff Fox through tangible facilities and recognized values ensures that his spirit will continue to inspire and guide the aspirations of future generations of Bulldogs. The Jeff Fox Hitting Facility is not just a construction project; it is a beacon of what can be achieved when a community unites to support its athletes and honor its history.
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Additional Resources
- UNC Asheville News: Jeff Fox Hitting Facility Groundbreaking
- Legacy: Jeffrey Fox Obituary
- New York Times: Jeff Fox Obituary
- UNC Asheville News: Honoring Jeff Fox’s Legacy
- Google Search: Jeff Fox baseball UNC Asheville
