Regent University Unveils Bold $50M Plan to Merge Faith and Athletics

September 29, 2024 – Virginia Beach, Virginia –

Regent University has taken a bold step forward with its announcement of a $50 million athletic complex, setting a new tone for its already growing presence in collegiate sports. This state-of-the-art project, which is part of the “Royals Rise” campaign, aims to transform the university’s campus into a dynamic hub for both athletes and students. As the university celebrates record enrollment numbers this fall, the timing couldn’t be more fitting. With its ambitious plans, Regent is positioning itself not just as a leader in Christian education but as a competitor on the national stage in NCAA athletics.

The athletic complex will span 31 acres and include a wide range of world-class facilities. From NCAA-certified basketball and volleyball courts with a seating capacity of 2,000, to a multipurpose soccer field, baseball and softball fields, and an outdoor track certified by both the NCAA and USATF, this complex is designed with both performance and community in mind. These facilities will not only serve as the home of the university’s athletic programs but will also open doors for regional and national tournaments, furthering Regent’s impact on collegiate sports and the local economy.

Chancellor Gordon Robertson emphasized that the project aims to inspire more than just physical excellence. He underscored Regent’s mission of fostering leadership and community development, noting that the complex is built not only for athletes but for every student looking to excel in their God-given abilities. The project also integrates spaces such as an atrium with a café, student lounge, banquet room, and outdoor seating—making it a place where all students can come together.

In a year where Regent University has taken its first steps toward joining NCAA Division III athletics, the athletic complex represents the university’s commitment to growth and success. Regent, which already fields 10 sports teams, is aiming to bolster its competitive edge with this investment. The university’s sports offerings will now have the infrastructure needed to compete at a higher level, and this expansion is expected to play a key role in recruiting and developing student-athletes who share the university’s values and commitment to excellence.

The project has also attracted high-profile partnerships, including a collaboration with NBA power forward Jonathan Isaac of the Orlando Magic. Isaac’s apparel brand, UNITUS, will sponsor Regent’s men’s and women’s basketball teams, providing them with his signature Judah 1 sneakers, which feature Bible verses on their design. This partnership highlights the university’s commitment to blending faith with athletic achievement and encouraging its athletes to be confident in their beliefs both on and off the court. Isaac, known for his strong Christian faith, expressed his excitement in partnering with Regent, emphasizing that this collaboration is about standing up for what believers hold true.

As Regent University embarks on this exciting new chapter, the athletic complex stands as a symbol of its evolving identity. The university’s mission to develop Christian leaders remains at the core of its efforts, and with this new investment, Regent is not only building facilities but also building a legacy. The athletic complex is expected to draw athletes, students, and community members alike, serving as a gathering place where sports and faith intersect, all while preparing the university for its future in NCAA competition.

This $50 million investment signals Regent’s determination to expand its influence in higher education and collegiate athletics. From the local community to the national stage, Regent University’s athletic complex will be a game-changer, elevating both its reputation and its impact for years to come.