Major renovations to Washburn’s Falley Field will still take place, but the completion date has been delayed until the fall of 2007. The original completion date for the project was set for fall of 2006.

Some of the major changes originally set to take place included new batting cages, new bull pens, a new wooden fence in the outfield, a complete renovation of the drainage system, a new warning track around the perimeter of the outfield, as well as completely re-grating the infield. Now the renovations will primarily focus only on the re-grating of the infield.

“When the baseball team’s season is complete we will go in and start construction,” said Kerry Dickerson, Washburn associate athletic director. “Right now we’re looking at renovating the infield with astro-turf from dugout to dugout which is going to eat up most of our expenses.”

After a two-year fundraising drive, the total estimated cost of the project is around $330,000. Revenue for the project is coming partly from private donations, as well as university support.

“Hopefully this project will give us a leg up in the MIAA as far as baseball facilities for present student athletes, and as we look into the future as well,” said Dickerson. We feel these upgrades will allow the university to attract standout players across the Midwest.”