For years, our student-athletes have been competing on a sub-par facility. The home facility of Niagara Softball has fallen well short of representing the pride and ownership that members of the Niagara family feel about their programs. It is time for this to change.
In order to accomplish our ultimate goal of transforming our fields into parks that offer a valuable practice venue, game day experience, and increased opportunities for community engagement, significant money still needs to be raised. Your involvement is crucial.
It is time to elevate Niagara Softball. Let’s play ball.
Sincerely,
Simon Gray
Director of Athletics
MISSION AND VISION
Our aim is to provide an outstanding experience for the approximately 340 student-athletes competing in 18 NCAA Division I sports. The ability to develop as a student, an athlete and socially is a primary function of the Department of Athletics. The athletic facilities at Niagara University will become a point of pride for the university and a major recruiting asset. In addition, this will serve as an area for community organizations to visit campus and compete.
The softball program was the third sport offered for female participation at Niagara University. Currently, the softball team provides the opportunity for 20 student-athletes to compete in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference. The 2017 team had two members selected to the All-MAAC Teams and placed eight student-athletes to the All-MAAC Academic Team. The softball program was named
"Community Team of the Year" at the 2018 Purple Eagle Awards Show.
IMPORTANCE
The redesign of the softball field will transform the facility and close the competitive gap within our athletic conference. Competing in the Northeast in softball leaves the university at a disadvantage due to the climate. A strategic way to overcome the challenges the climate presents is having an artificial surface. The ability to train on an artificial surface earlier in the season will allow for the development of the student-athletes.
A significant recruiting advantage will be gained by having the only artificial playing surface dedicated solely to softball on campus within our conference. The completed project will be second to none within the league. Having the team compete on campus will enhance the student experience, providing easier access for student viewing opportunities.
PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS
• Completely redesigned field to improve the safety of the complex, as well as improved drainage for potential reduction in cancellations.
• Artificial playing surface — additional benefits: alleviate stress on Kiernan Recreation Center, improve safety in playing surface, reduce rainouts.
• New dugouts.
• Expanded seating areas with improved sightliness.
• Enhanced backstop with improved netting for safety.
• Community access to the fields and campus.
VIDEO TESTIMONIAL
FOUR MAJOR REASONS WHY THE RENOVATIONS WILL BENEFIT THE PROGRAM
- The ability to practice outside earlier in the season which will prepare team to travel south and compete.
- Be able to play more home games which will keep our players in the classroom more and cut down on the travel rigors our players endure.
- The improved facility will give us a viable asset in the current recruiting landscape, offering a facility that prospective student-athletes and parents will be impressed with.
- Facility that will attract many regional teams and players to our wonderful campus.
Larry Puzan
Niagara Softball Head Coach
“I am very excited about this project. The softball field renovations will emphasize to parents, students, and the community about the commitment Niagara University has to enhancing the student-athlete experience.”
