SB: Florida softball program finally getting home they deserve

In 1996, the University of Florida spent $2.6 million to build Katie Seashole Pressly Stadium. Outside of minor renovations in 2001 and 2012, the stadium looks much like it did on opening day, February 8, 1997.

That’s going to change in a big way next season. The University of Florida announced an $11 million renovation that is set to take place upon the completion of this season and is expected to be ready in time for the beginning of the 2019 season.

The renovation will now include a 360-degree open concourse as well as shade in several sections of the stadium seating bowl. Gone will be the uncomfortable bleachers, instead the seating area will be entirely chairback fixed seating. The overall capacity of the stadium will increase to approximately 2,800.

Another noticeable change will be an elevated press box, which will allow for extra shade behind home plate, as well as the ability to watch the game from the concourse.

For the student-athletes, modern amenities such as locker room and medical facilities will be enhanced.

Florida head coach Tim Walton tweeted his excitement upon the announcement:

Thank you Gator Nation! Wow what a blessing. The impact of a project like this will be celebrated by former, current, and future gator athletes and fans everywhere. Thank you Gator Boosters. Go Gators! https://t.co/MQuWubryZH

— Tim Walton (@_TimWalton) March 23, 2018

As did several current and former Gators:

Kelly Barnhill:

So excited for this! Can’t wait to play my senior season on this amazing field. It’s great to be a Florida Gator!💙🐊🧡 https://t.co/q9KSzImLjt

— Kelly Barnhill (@kkatlyn111) March 23, 2018

Amanda Lorenz:

😍 what a time to be a gator! So thankful and excited! https://t.co/qtgh15E6gm

— Amanda Lorenz (@AmandaLorenz18) March 23, 2018

Katie Chronister:

Feeling pretty lucky to be a Florida Gator 💙🐊 https://t.co/tq0ZxjGYmp

— Katie Chronister (@KTChronister56) March 23, 2018

Justine McLean:

@_TimWalton can you recruit me all over again??? https://t.co/2CowPp14rM

— Justine McLean (@justinemcleannn) March 23, 2018

Aubree Munro:

ITS SO PRETTY!!! I can’t wait to sit and watch some great softball here!!! This program deserves it💙😍 https://t.co/yk4WA261To

— Aubree Munro (@Aubree_Munro1) March 23, 2018

The Gators have won two National Championships and have attended the Women’s College World Series eight times.
*Information for this article was provided by the official UF softball press release and Twitter timeline.

+Photos courtesy of the University Athletic Association.