By T.J. Brinkerhoff
tj@newsroom.byu.edu
BYU baseball has always wanted to do something for the fans.
In fact, for past 25 years, assistant athletic director and former head baseball coach Gary Pullins has been working on something that would be just right for BYU baseball fans.
On May 13 of this year, the construction of a new baseball stadium commenced, which is on schedule to meet its April 20 completion date.
'Our first priority is to get the teams on the field,' Pullins said. 'And to have the creature comforts done -- that means the seats, playing surface, dugout, press box and concessions will be done prior to the home opener in March.'
One of the features of the new stadium will be individual seats in the complex that will replace the old bleachers.
'There will be no more wind blowing from beneath on cold days, or roasting on hot days,' Pullins said.
Other features will include the addition of stadium lights which will allow for night games that make game times more accessible for busy students and families.
A new sound system and scoreboard will also help create a more professional atmosphere.
'In the past, this venue has produced a more Little League atmosphere,' centerfielder Shane Belliston said.
'The stadium will definitely make things more exciting for the fans.'
But the new features will not solely benefit the spectators.
With the additions of a clubhouse, training room, locker room and in-house practice facilities, the players and coaches have plenty to be happy about.
'Having on-site facilities will create more team unity and will truly be a place for the players,' assistant coach Mike Karpel said.
'The guys feel more ownership in the program, more pride in the field and the program as a whole.'
The indoor amenities will offer the players a place for them to prepare for games.
'As a pitcher, I would just show up around game time, but when this is completed, I will have a place to come and spend some time getting ready for a game,' pitcher Jeff Stone said. 'It makes things more comfortable.'
The stadium will also be a catalyst to the national stage.
'The new stadium is key to us becoming respected nationally,' Belliston said.