How did Coach Fred Herren influence your life?
Our legendary coach turns 90 years old this year and we want to honor him with the next step in the renovation of Setzler Field.
When Coach arrived at Newberry in 1968, he inherited a small group of returning players and immediately began building the foundation for something special. After a difficult 70-0 loss to Western Carolina in 1969, he led the Indians to an 8-2-1 record in 1971—the program's most wins since the state championship team of 1924. That magical 1971 season was capped by a 34-0 Thanksgiving Day victory over Presbyterian, bringing the Bronze Derby back to Newberry for the first time since 1965. The rest, as they say, is history.
Coach Herren changed lives and influenced countless individuals—not only on the football field, but throughout the Newberry community and beyond. He served the institution twice as Director of Athletics, as Director of Alumni Affairs, and as Vice President for Development.
To honor Coach in a meaningful and lasting way, our goal is to raise $500,000 toward the $2 million project by September 12th when we host Lenoir-Rhyne.
We truly believe we can achieve it—with your help. These funds will be used to permanently solidify his legacy with his name on the stadium and help us renovate the west side stands and press box. Significant improvements have already transformed Setzler Field, including the addition of the Melvin and Dollie Younts Athletic Performance Center in 2020 and the Founders Federal Credit Union Fieldhouse in 2023. Now it is time to complete the vision. This past year was one of the most successful in the history of Newberry athletics,with three of the programs that call Setzler Field home reaching new heights
Why Give Now?
- Honors Coach Herren's enduring legacy
- Enhances recruitment and competitiveness for Wolves athletics
- Builds pride and connection for the entire Newberry family
- Creates a lasting campus destination for athletic events, fans, and families
