MVNU dedicates new softball field

MOUNT VERNON — Two of years of planning and hard work finally paid off on Saturday at the Mount Vernon Nazarene softball doubleheader against Walsh University. The Grand Opening Ceremony for New Cougar Field took place, and Director of Mount Vernon Nazarene Facilities Services Department Denny Taylor threw out the first pitch.

“That was kind of exciting — it was right across the plate,” said Taylor.

Taylor served as the general contractor, and while he hired a number of sub-contractors to construct the field, there was also a core group of MVNU crew members involved. The actual building process started on July 10, and ended on Friday.

“I think for the university, we will have one of the premier fields around, another six months or so after this grass gets set in,” said Taylor.

The outfield grass was planted two years ago when plans for the field were first formed. This is the first facility to be built on old farmland off of Newark Road, that will eventually be home to all of the Cougars’ athletic complexes. A road will be constructed to connect the facilities to main campus.

“It is long over due, this program has had just such a great winning tradition over the years and I think it is important,” said former MVNU softball standout Kendra Lambert.

Lambert, who currently oversees small group ministries on campus, played for the Cougars from 1988-92. She spoke to the crowd during field’s dedication on what being a part of MVNU’s softball program has meant to her.

“I think it’s cool to be a part of this tradition that has been so enriching in my life. It’s neat to come out and help them. To really see the relationships and growth of the team. ... It is just really fun to be a part of that experience,” said Lambert.

In addition to the field, a press box with built-in restrooms and a concession stand were constructed. The dugouts stretch longer than most — with storage space for equipment on both home and visiting sides. The stands were erected straight behind the back stop.

“It is kind of neat to have this be the first facility to be built here. I think the girls will really enjoy and I think from a fan’s perspective it is excellent seating. It’s so much more, and just great visibility,” said Lambert.

For Taylor, seeing the final culmination of his project was just as rewarding as throwing out the first strike. Taylor is now 1-0 for the Cougars — uncontested from the mound.

“It’s really hard to put into words when you work on a project for two years and finally see it come together. Just to see the expression on the faces of the team to finally be on their new field ... ” said Taylor.

MVNU gets a second chance to break in its newest facility again on April 10 against Malone College starting at 3 p.m.