Hundreds gathered September 20, 2023, to mark the groundbreaking for the Copeland Athletic Complex at MNU. More than 400 MNU student-athletes were among Olathe community members, city officials, project donors, MNU alumni, faculty and staff who celebrated the achievement of a dream.
In just over a year, students will have a state-of-the-art football stadium and track, ending the need for those athletes to practice and compete off campus. The facility will span 11 acres adjacent to Dixon Baseball Stadium, Williams Softball Field, Pioneer Soccer Field, and Cook Center. Boasting cutting-edge amenities, the complex promises to revolutionize the athletic experience for athletes and fans alike.
The Copeland Athletic Complex is named for 1984 MNU alumnus and six-term Olathe Mayor, Michael Copeland. Copeland passed away August 19, 2020, leaving a mark of incredible leadership on Olathe and MNU.
Those in attendance at the groundbreaking heard from Olathe City Manager Michael Wilkes, Fire Chief and Director of Emergency Management Dr. Jeff DeGraffenreid (’96), Mrs. Maria Copeland on behalf of the Michael Copeland family, MNU President David Spittal and other MNU leaders.
