Bethlehem University held a blessing and inauguration ceremony of the George Felton Court on Wednesday, 17 September 2025, which brought together students, faculty, staff, alumni, and distinguished guests in a spirited event that combined faith, sportsmanship, and community.

Following the Palestinian National Anthem, Bethlehem University’s Vice Chancellor Br. Hernán Santos,FSC, PhD, delivered the official university speech.

In his remarks, Brother Hernán emphasized the significance of the occasion: “This ceremony is not just about dedicating a facility, it is about celebrating the values of generosity, community, and faith. May every game and gathering here remind us of our mission to work together for a brighter future.”

Br. Hernan has also thanked Mr. Felton for his generous support to build this court. “We gather above all in gratitude to Coach George and his friends.” He added “His generosity has made this court possible, and his name will now live on in the daily life of our students as they play, learn, and grow together. Thank you, Coach George, for your inspiring commitment.”

Speaking on behalf of the alumni, Ghada Rumman (BU ’07), a former Bethlehem University Basketball player, highlighted the value of athletics in her student journey: “Basketball at Bethlehem University taught us teamwork, resilience, and leadership. With this new court, future student-athletes will continue to grow not only as players but also as men and women of service to their communities.”

The unveiling of the commemorative plaque was led by Brother Hernán and Coach Felton. Taking the podium, Coach George Felton shared his personal connection to the University: “From the first time I stepped onto this campus, I was inspired by the determination of the students. This court is for them, a place to dream, to compete, and to carry forward the values of this remarkable University.”

As a representative of the student basketball players, Razeen Ghattas, third year student of Business Administration said “For us, as basketball players, this court is not only a place to train and compete, it is a home where our dreams will take flight, where friendships will be forged, and where the spirit of teamwork and resilience will grow stronger with every game we play.”

In his turn, Coach George Felton spoke of his profound and deep relationship with Bethlehem University, its administration, faculty, staff, and especially its students.

Coach George said, “It is rewarding and a privilege to have this court named in my honor, and to have the Patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pizzabella, delegating Bishop Giacinto Bolos Marcuzzo, for the blessing of the George Felten Court.”

He also remarked that he and his wife has established an endowed scholarship to honor their son, whom they lost around five years ago.

Coach George ended his speech by saying “May this court continuously bounce the ball of hope, spiritually, academically, socially/career, and athletically/health to help us all to carry our cross this day and every day.

H.E. Bishop Marcuzzo, Br. Hernan, and Coach George unveiled the main sign of the court. Following the unveiling, the court was blessed by H.E. Bishop Marcuzzo, who remarked that every place of gathering at Bethlehem University is a place of blessing. May this court not only host games but also foster friendship, respect, and hope among young people.

The program continued with a ceremonial free shot taken by Coach Felton, cheered on by students, followed by a friendly basketball game by Bethlehem University athletes, symbolizing the beginning of a new chapter in the University’s athletic life. Guests later gathered for refreshments and fellowship.

The inauguration of the George Felton Court stands as a lasting tribute not only to Coach Felton’s distinguished career in basketball but also to his steadfast support for the mission of Bethlehem University and the promise of the youth of Palestine.

The guests, faculty, staff, and students were invited for refreshments at the Br. Peter Bray hall at the Georgette Salameh Building.