Wesleyan has played only intramural football so far, but the College plans to field its first varsity football team in the fall of 2004. The official announcement came at a March news conference in the Garner Lobby of the Dunn Center, where President Ian Newbould discussed Wesleyan's plans.

"A great deal of work has gone into this," he said. "Wesleyan has carefully studied the implementation of football—what it needs, what it takes, the experience of the other schools in our conference and other schools across the country that have implemented Division III football programs. We think this is the beginning of something very important. It's not as much about athletics as it is about the students—the recruitment of students and the retention of students."

Also speaking at the news conference, Athletic Director John Thompson said there are multiple reasons for establishing football. "In addition to adding a sport that will be competitive in conference play, it will also help increase enrollment. Increased enrollment is a major factor in building the financial strategy of the College. In the area of student life, it will give the student body more activities. Football is also considered to be the first step in the eventual growth and development of the entire Athletics Department."

Wesleyan's football team will play home games on Saturdays at the Rocky Mount Athletic Complex, approximately across from RBC Centura's headquarters. A practice field will be constructed on campus, behind Wesleyan's softball field and near the corner of the College property along Bishop and Fenner roads.

The search for a head football coach has begun, with hopes that a coach will be on board for recruitment purposes by this coming fall.

Fundraising efforts for startup costs are also underway. "Two contributors have already come forward," Thompson said. "RBC Centura has come on board as an example of community support that Wesleyan is looking for. Also, former basketball All-American Roger Taylor has contributed $35,000 in seed money. It is alumni support such as this that will be counted on for the initial financial success."

Taylor, a 1970 graduate, a past president of the Alumni Association, and a current trustee, said, "I think about the number of young men who will come to Wesleyan College and experience what I did back many years ago. They might have gone somewhere else if football was not available. If we can add 100 or so new students, it's exciting. This is where Wesleyan needs to be, and I'm glad to be a part of it."

Newbould also discussed plans to expand athletic facilities. A field house for the football team and other outdoor sports will be built in an area adjacent to the soccer field and the baseball and softball fields. Later, Everett Gymnasium will be renovated and greatly expanded for use as a recreation center.