The baseball field at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford has been officially named Repchick Family Field, recognizing the contributions of alumnus George Repchick, class of 1982, his wife, Lynda, and their family. This dedication is in appreciation of the Repchicks’ significant donation towards the university’s new artificial turf project, as well as their long-standing support for the university’s nursing program and scholarships.
The dedication ceremony for the field took place on September 28 during Alumni and Family Weekend. It was attended by members of the Pitt-Bradford and Bradford communities, along with the Repchick family.
“We are deeply thankful to George and Lynda for their generous donation, one of the largest gifts ever made by a Pitt-Bradford alumnus,” said Rick Esch, president of Pitt-Bradford. “Their support has helped us enhance our academic programs, provide scholarships, and offer more opportunities for our students.”
George Repchick, a successful entrepreneur, grew up near Scranton and attended Pitt-Bradford, where he played for the university’s baseball team, which was coached by Dick Danielson at the time. Repchick fondly recalls his days on the team and even wore his vintage 1980s royal blue Panthers bomber jacket, embroidered with his name, during an interview.
After earning his bachelor’s degree at Pitt-Bradford, Repchick pursued a master’s degree at the University of Scranton before beginning a successful career in healthcare. In 2001, he co-founded Saber Healthcare Group LLC with his partner, Bill Weisberg, starting with one nursing home in Cleveland. Under his leadership, the company expanded to over 100 skilled nursing and assisted living facilities across six states.
Repchick also played a key role in developing modern nursing homes throughout Saber’s markets and successfully co-founded businesses in institutional pharmacy, home health, oxygen and medical equipment, and even the restaurant industry. He stepped down as president of Saber in 2019 and, in January 2020, became CEO of Embassy Healthcare, a company that operates assisted living and nursing facilities in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Florida, and North Carolina.
Reflecting on his time at Pitt-Bradford, Repchick expressed his motivation for giving back. “Pitt-Bradford had the biggest impact on my development,” he said. “I’ve always had a deep connection to the university.” He also praised the institution for continuing to support first-generation students and those in need, much like he was during his college years. “It’s a full-circle moment for me,” Repchick said, describing the dedication as a meaningful gesture. “Giving back is truly a two-way street.”
The Repchicks’ donation also contributed to the creation of Rathburn Family Field, an artificial turf facility with stadium lighting that allows the university’s soccer and lacrosse teams to practice and play in almost any condition, regardless of time of day. The new Repchick Family Field will serve as the home field for both Pitt-Bradford Panthers baseball and the Bradford Area High School Owls baseball teams. Both fields are part of the university’s Kessel Athletic Complex.
Looking ahead, Pitt-Bradford plans to further develop Rathburn Family Field by adding a two-story building. The facility will feature a press box on the upper level and include public restrooms, concessions, and a dining area on the ground floor.
Related Topics:
