Softball fields named NCFA DIII Field of the Year

On Friday, Oct. 8, the CSB Softball complex was named the NFCA Division III Field of the Year. It was completed in 2018, along with the rest of the Sister Lois Wedl Athletic Center.

“The coaches and student athletes feel very fortunate to be able to practice and host games at such an amazing facility…The awe of the construction and gratitude for those who have made it possible is a daily feeling,” softball Head Coach Rachael Click said, “Our athletes love playing at home in front of their friends and family…it is a very fan-friendly field with great sightlines, seating options and creates an intimate feel.”

The renovated field features many new amenities that earned it the prestigious award.

Modern additions at the field include a heated press box, sound system, lighted grandstand and dugouts, full net backstop, beverage rail for fans, 40-foot-long dugouts with custom player lockers and bat rack, branded backstop, bathrooms in dugouts, two batting tunnels and four bull pens.

The building between the softball fields houses bathrooms for fans, a ticket office and a concession stand.

The players take pride in their newly constructed field.

“When we play on our home field, we want to defend the shield and our complex that we take a lot of pride in,” softball captain Jordyn Swoboda said. “There is an added exciting energy playing on our beautiful complex…it gives us confidence and excitement going into the upcoming season.”

This accolade is important for CSB as an institution as it proves their dedication to the women’s athletics programs and shows incredible support for female athletes.

“Knowing there are many who believe in the importance of women’s athletics and having that community support makes us feel like they are rooting for us,” Click said.

Swoboda echoed her remarks.

“I think it adds to the school’s atmosphere as a whole,” Swoboda said.

Athletic Director Kelly Anderson-Diercks sees the complex as a testament to the dedication of CSB athletics supporters.

“The accolade is a testament to our athletic staff, external partners and facility who designed, built and maintain such an incredible complex. For our student athletes, this is one of the best facilities in the entire region—it’s a great venue to play in and a great venue to watch a game,”

As CSB continues to make upgrades to its campus buildings and facilities, it will not stop at the softball fields as far as athletic improvements are concerned.

“Our tennis and swim and dive facilities are our next top priorities for updates/renovations. We are still very early in the exploration stage of what this could look like, but it is great that the conversations are starting and ideas are being discussed,” Anderson-Diercks said.