By Alex Minella
Construction of the new Byrne Family Baseball Complex is underway following the groundbreaking ceremony on October 20, 2026. The project is funded by alumnus Kerry Byrne ’83 and Missy Byrne.
During the ceremony on Oct. 20, McNicholas President Bob Knoll said renovations will include a “turf field, batting tunnels, training areas, improved dugouts, movable pitcher’s mound, bullpens and enhanced ADA accessibility.”
McNicholas has remained an important part of Byrne family for many generations. Kerry Byrne said, “The opportunity was presented to me as a part of the capital campaign [and] right away I got excited about it.” As a former baseball player, Byrne said he was looking forward to “Having the ability to not have to worry about the rain in the spring.”
Rocket baseball player senior Nathan Kramer said, “The turf field is more than just about baseball. It’s about school pride, bringing our community together and creating opportunities for current and future rockets.”
Byrne said he is looking forward to the completion of the complex and seeing the team use the new field. “I cannot wait for when the guys throw the first pitch next spring,” he said.
Byrne also shared advice for current McNicholas students, encouraging them to appreciate their time at the school. “Try to enjoy every minute and every day you have with your classmates and your teammates. It goes by fast,” Byrne said.
To view the entirety of the ceremony from October 20, 2026, click this link to coverage by the Rocket News Network.
