Lakeland will build a $2.8 million outdoor multisport athletic facility for use by the Muskies and the greater community, president Dan Eck announced on Oct. 31, 2016.

 The facility, which will feature Sheboygan County's only turfed field, will be home to Lakeland's football and men's and women's soccer teams, and Lakeland intends to add two new programs – men's and women's lacrosse. It will be available for play in the fall of 2017.

The lighted field, which will also have new bleachers and a new press box, will also be available for area high school football and soccer games, high school tournaments and postseason use and area youth sports needs.

"Taylor Field has served us well for nearly 50 years," Eck said. "The new Taylor Field that will be part of this facility will allow us to better serve our students, our alumni and the community. It's another exciting step forward in our evolution as Lakeland University."

Lakeland will be approaching a select group of people and entities for special naming rights to partner with the university. Lakeland's leadership has begun discussions locally regarding funding and partnerships that will enhance this community project.

"This strategic initiative will have an immediate positive impact on recruitment and retention for Lakeland, which in turn brings more talented young people to Sheboygan County," Eck said.