Work is underway for Rogers State University’s on-campus baseball and softball fields, which are expected to be completed before the spring seasons begin.
The fields, one each for baseball and softball, are being constructed on seven acres on the western edge of campus along Blue Starr Drive, adjacent to the Claremore Veterans Center.
The fields are targeted for a late December completion date, with the baseball and softball seasons slated to begin in February. The baseball and softball schedules are currently being finalized, and are expected to be announced later this fall.
Earlier this year, RSU announced that it would begin intercollegiate baseball and softball competition as a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). The RSU Hillcat baseball team is coached by Ron Bradley, and the RSU Hillcat softball team is coached by Dawn Reed.
RSU President Dr. Joe Wiley said students have long requested that the university add intercollegiate athletics because it enhances the traditional college experience. The establishment of on-campus baseball and softball facilities will strengthen the campus community for students, he said.
Each field will accommodate seating for 200 spectators, and the facility will be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act requirements. Parking for approximately 250-300 cars will be available at the facility. A gate will be installed on the west side to allow residents of the Veterans Center to easily attend the games.
The facility will contain men’s and women’s locker rooms with showers, toilets and other amenities for the players
The project is being funded through student facility fees, university sources and private donations. Architectural Design Group (ADG) of Oklahoma City is serving as the project architect, and the university has employed Phil Pennington of Oologah to build the fields and related facilities. Other area contractors involved with the project are: R.T. Excavating, Oologah; McMains Construction, Oologah; Chambers Excavating, Talala; Tom Wood Excavating, Talala; KC Fencing, Tulsa; and Brown Sod Farms, Owasso.