Following a successful 2018 softball season at the University of Oklahoma, which attracted record crowds, it has been revealed that plans for a new, larger capacity stadium have been approved.
The current OU Softball Complex, which has a maximum seating capacity of 1,378, saw sell-out crowds last season, which led to organisers adding temporary bleachers to boost capacity to 1,927.
It was previously proposed to renovate the current facility, however The University of Oklahoma Board of Regents has approved a revised design, which proposes to locate a new venue approximately one and a half miles south of the current facility to allow space for required facility elements and structures as well as making further use of adjacent athletic facilities and existing parking.
“We have spent a considerable amount of effort reviewing this project and working to achieve the best possible result,” said Joe Castiglione, OU vice president and athletics director.
“We determined that this was the best route to take in developing a facility that not only rates among the best in the nation, but fits with our other athletics sites located in the same vicinity.”
The new softball stadium is said to offer one of the country’s premier facilitates for play and training, and will include three concessions stands with a total of 11 points of sale (an increase of nine) and six restrooms (an increase of 60 fixtures). Other changes include a 10,000ft² indoor practice facility, which is nearly double the size of the current facility, and several team spaces including a training room, locker room and classroom.
“This will be one of the finest facilities in the country and give us a real boost in training and recruiting,” said OU Softball head coach Patty Gasso. “It also allows us to serve our great fans with the kind of amenities they deserve.”
July 4, 2018
