FORT PIERCE | John Carroll High School marked a milestone Oct. 23, 2025, with the grand opening of its new athletic fieldhouse, including a ribbon-cutting ceremony. A highlight of the evening was the dedication of the building in honor of former coach and mentor Dave Vercillo, who attended with many family members and friends.
The fieldhouse marks the completion of a transformative project that will serve as a cornerstone of athletics and student engagement. It features a state-of-the-art weight room, indoor practice turf, bathrooms, game-planning suite, concessions and ticketing window designed to support athletic programs and school-wide events. Batting cages for softball and baseball are to be added soon.
Principal Michael Bryk said the building was originally going to be a metal structure and a lot smaller. But construction plans grew over the last four years into a concrete-block facility.
“This new space will elevate our athletic programs and provide a versatile environment for student life,” he said. “We are deeply grateful to everyone who helped make it a reality.”
The school recognized key donors during the ceremonies including: the Pottorff and Drawdy families, whose initial contribution helped launch the project and whose continued support helped bring it to life; Hank and Jenny Fee for their significant gift for which the weight room is named; Dr. Denise Pieczynski and Dr. Jeff Brown, Sheryll and Greg Thogerson, John and Lee Moore; Roger Priest and Darren Guettler for their guidance and unwavering support; and all other supporters.
Corey Heroux, school president, said the fieldhouse represents a “significant milestone” for John Carroll.
“It is a testament to the dedication and generosity of our friends, alumni and families,” Heroux said. “We look forward to celebrating this achievement together and honoring Coach Vercillo’s incredible legacy.”
Vercillo didn’t know his name would be attached to the building until it was revealed during the ceremony. That special tribute was made possible through the generosity of the Guettler family, who formally recognized Vercillo at the event.
Father Tom Barrett, pastor of Holy Cross Parish in Vero Beach and John Carroll’s former president, blessed the building with holy water after the ribbon cutting. On Sept. 16, when Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito visited the school to celebrate Mass at St. Anastasia Church with students, faculty and staff, he toured the building under construction and gave his blessing.
Emphasizing the impact on student athletes, Mickey Groody, athletic director and head football coach, said, “This facility gives our athletes the tools they need to grow, compete and succeed, not only in their physical development but in their spiritual journey as well. It reflects our core value: we are a community united in Christ’s love. We’re thrilled to open our doors and share this moment with our school family.”
He added that the fieldhouse will be available for use by all sports teams and students in health, physical education and related classes. “It’s funny, I’ve had multiple coaches reach out who don’t usually use our weight room, all to reach out and schedule some time here. So, I think it’s kind of re-energizing our athletic program a little bit,” Groody said.
For more information on John Carroll High School, visit www.JohnCarrollHigh.com, call 772-464-5200 or visit pages on Facebook and Instagram.
