New England College Athletics has announced two significant updates: the return of the Track and Field program and the construction of a new athletics center, which will include additions to Bridges Gymnasium and expanded fitness facilities.
Track and Field will return after nearly a 10-year hiatus. The team will begin varsity competition in the 2026-2027 academic year, but plans are in place to have athletes participate in meets or other races prior to the start of varsity competition.
The program was previously active at NEC from 2010 to 2016. Dave Decew, NEC’s athletic director, said the return of the program is a major opportunity for the school.
“Most people that run want to do it year-round. This will build that opportunity. We think it’s a fertile landscape to attract other student-athletes who might not otherwise look at New England College,” Decew said.
Construction is officially underway on the new athletics facilities and updates to Bridges Gym.
The upgrades will include new varsity locker rooms, new coaches’ offices, updated sports medicine rooms, and a revamped strength lab.
“It really is a big deal—not just for our school, but anywhere. We hope this will make us more competitive, attract more student-athletes, and help our teams succeed,” Decew said.
Construction will continue throughout the semester and is expected to last into the summer.
