Campus News

April 28th, 2026

First United Community Field dedicated

Rush: Field 'about community, opportunity and investing in our kids'

Photos by John Rudd

Jason Rush, president and chief executive officer for First United Bank and Trust, put Friday's dedication of First United Community Field at Garrett College into perspective.

"Today isn't just about baseball," said Rush. "It's about community, opportunity, and the power of coming together to invest in our kids and in our future."

"It's also about opportunity and access," added Rush. "It's about creating a place where young athletes can dream bigger, train harder, and feel supported."

Dr. Richard Midcap, Garrett College's president, said First United's turf field naming gift "is just the latest example of First United seeing a community need and then stepping in to fill it."

"There are a lot of great things happening at Garrett College," said Midcap. "Many of those things are only possible due to the great support we receive from the business community – and none has been more supportive of Garrett College than First United Bank and Trust."

Cherie Krug, executive director of the Garrett College Foundation, noted that First United's naming gift allowed the College and the Foundation to reach its initial goal for the Athletics Capital Campaign, a $6.3 million project that will support GC's expanding intercollegiate athletic program. The 700 Building renovation – expected to be complete by the end of May – will provide four additional locker rooms, a wrestling room, athletic training space, and coaches offices.

"The Garrett College Foundation is so appreciative of the ongoing support First United Bank & Trust provides the College and the Foundation," said Krug.

Midcap thanked the Garrett County Commissioners – Paul Edwards, Larry Tichnell, and Ryan Savage – for their support of the turf field's construction.

"The Garrett County Commissioners committed $1.5 million to the turf field construction," noted Midcap. "This field would not have been possible without the county's support, and I'd like to express my sincere appreciation for their commitment to this project."

Eric Hallenbeck, GC's head baseball coach and administrative athletics director, noted the turf field benefits the community as well as the College, with high school, American Legion, and youth teams also enjoying access to the field.

"This field has truly become a huge community asset," said Hallenbeck, who recently recorded his 500th victory in 22 seasons as the Lakers' head coach.

Notes: Friday's celebration included First United giveaways – including Cracker Jacks and foam baseballs – as well as free gelato to all in attendance.

The Lakers improved to 12-4 at home while splitting Friday's doubleheader with Westmoreland County Community College.