BOCA RATON, FL (BocaNewsNow.com) (Copyright © 2026 MetroDesk Media, LLC) — Lynn University has named its new softball facility Tish Celenza Messinger Stadium in honor of longtime supporter and accomplished athlete Tish Messinger, whose $1.3 million pledge marks the largest donation ever made to women’s sports in the university’s history. The gift will fund both the new stadium and student scholarships for the Fighting Knights softball program.
The stadium, completed this spring just in time for the 2026 season, features synthetic turf, modern dugouts and an elevated press box with advanced technology capable of accommodating more than 200 spectators. “This transformative gift will elevate our growing softball program and create lasting opportunities for our student-athletes,” said Lynn University President Kevin M. Ross. “We are deeply grateful for Tish’s generosity and commitment to our students.”
Softball has been part of Lynn’s athletic landscape for more than two decades, competing in the Sunshine State Conference with a record that includes 50 SSC All-Conference honors, four All-Americans and three alumni who went on to play professionally. Lynn’s NCAA Division II athletics programs have combined for 27 national championships. Messinger’s latest gift builds on a history of giving that has included student necessities aid, scholarship support and annual donations. “Tish is passionate about creating opportunities for students and seeing firsthand how her support changes lives,” said Director of Advancement Lisa Miller.
For softball coach Cassidy Pickett, who is in her fourth year leading the program, the new facility has reinvigorated recruiting and team morale. “With a new stadium and expanded scholarship support, the excitement truly feels like day one again,” Pickett said. “This investment creates incredible momentum for our program and opens the door for us to recruit and develop exceptional student-athletes.”
