University of North Carolina Ashville Athletics
UNC Asheville Baseball Breaks Ground on the Jeff Fox Hitting Facility
05.19.2025 | Baseball
ASHEVILLE, N.C. - The UNC Asheville Baseball program officially broke ground on the Jeff Fox Hitting Facility on Monday, May 19.
"We are excited to begin construction on this project that will enhance the student-athlete experience while honoring the late Jeff Fox," said Director of Athletics Janet R. Cone. "A special thanks to our donors, many of whom are alumni, and to David E. Looper & Company, who have made it possible for UNC Asheville to have a covered hitting and pitching facility for the first time in program history."
Jeff Fox was a former standout baseball player for the Bulldogs who later served as a member of the Secret Service. During his eight-year tenure at the White House, he was responsible for protecting American Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush. Tragically, Fox passed away on March 16, 2021, due to COVID-19. His character and athletic talent left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. In honor of Jeff's memory, his No. 6 jersey is awarded each year to a player who exemplifies his values of dedication, determination, and loyalty.
Senior Corbin Lanowitz wore Jeff Fox's No. 6 jersey this season for the Bulldogs.
"This is a huge step forward for our program," said Lanowitz. "The Jeff Fox hitting facility is going to be such an advantage for UNC Asheville baseball players for years to come, and I can't wait to see where it takes us. Wearing number 6 for 50 games this year was an absolute pleasure. Every day when I put on the jersey, it humbled me a little bit. It helped remind me that this is bigger than baseball; it's about the impact you make on lives around you."
"We are obviously very excited about how this helps UNC Asheville Baseball and our current players," said UNC Asheville head coach Scott Friedholm. "But to be able to share this groundbreaking with Jeff's teammates and parents is the special part for me. He has left his mark on this program for the last 35+ years."
