Community First Champion Center Announces Naming of Mary Beth Nienhaus Fieldhouse

The fieldhouse at the Community First Champion Center (CFCC) now bears the name of local philanthropist, former educator, and golf pro Mary Beth Nienhaus thanks to her generous donation to Fox Cities Sports Development, Inc.

A part of the Midwest’s newest premier sports complex, the Mary Beth Nienhaus Fieldhouse at the CFCC features versatility for four basketball courts or eight volleyball courts, other sports, and seating for up to 800 spectators.

“We are pleased to honor Mary Beth Nienhaus and her legacy of supporting causes throughout the Fox Cities, especially those focused on healthy lifestyles, with the naming of Mary Beth Nienhaus Fieldhouse at the Community First Champion Center,” said Pam Seidl, president of Fox Cities Sports Development, Inc. and executive director of the Fox Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau.

A resident of Appleton and former educator, coach, and golf professional, Nienhaus is a generous philanthropist and active volunteer. For 33 years, Nienhaus educated young men and women at Kaukauna High School, Illinois State University, and Appleton West High School. During her time at Appleton West, Nienhaus coached golf, basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, track, and cheerleading. Nienhaus’ teams collected multiple Fox Valley Association and WIAA Regional, Sectional, and State Championships during her time with the Terrors.

“I am delighted to be able to support the Community First Champion Center,” Nienhaus said. “My entire life has centered around teaching and coaching youngsters about sports and fitness. The Champion Center embodies all of those qualities I am so passionate about.”

Nienhaus was also an accomplished golfer herself winning multiple state titles. For over 40 years, Nienhaus was involved with Winagamie Golf Course in Neenah as manager, instructor, golf professional, and owner. Nienhaus has been enshrined in five hall of fames (St. Mary Catholic High School, Appleton West High School, Wisconsin State Golf Association, Wisconsin High School Basketball Coaches Association, and Wisconsin High School Golf Coaches Association.)

Opened in November 2019, the CFCC is a 164,000-square-foot indoor sports facility with both ice and hard-court surfaces. Weekday activities at the facility provide opportunities for local athletes to practice and train while weekend events at the venue drive positive economic impact by welcoming visiting teams from across the Midwest. The CFCC has been recognized as one of the best new sports facilities in the country.

Fox Cities Sports Development, Inc. administers the operations of the CFCC for the facility’s owner, the Town of Grand Chute, and Fox Cities Sports Development, Inc. contracts with Sports Facilities Management (SFM) for the day-to-day operations of the facility. Visit championcenterwi.com to learn more about the facility.