The University of Texas at Austin Athletics
UFCU Disch-Falk Field remains work in progress
02.01.2007 | Texas Athletics
-
Men's Athletics Director DeLoss Dodds knows how impressive UFCU Disch-Falk Field will be when the $25.8 million renovation is completed before the start of the 2008 season.
And for 2007?
"Everything is going great," Dodds said of the construction on the baseball park.
"The new seats are in," he continued, discussing the current state of the ballpark. "Also, we have the new lights in and the new third baseline seating area is in.
"But, this is a work in progress. It will be a tough year for our players, coaches and fans, and we have such great fans. They know this is a ballpark under construction. They also know what it will be like for the first pitch next season."
Jim Baker, associate athletics director for events and operations, echoed the words of his boss and noted, "It is going to be really great when the construction is finished."
UFCU Disch-Falk will have a capacity of 4,700 this year, with access to the stadium through a gate near left field. The first game of the year in UFCU Disch-Falk Field will be Feb. 20 when the Horns host Texas State.
"We have new padding on the walls and our bullpen in left field will be ready soon," Baker said. "We have new disabled seating. And the player development area along the first baseline will be ready.
"Everything will be green -- seats, walls -- just as Augie (Garrido) wanted in order to have a better background for players so they can pick up the ball easier."
Baker said that there may be some additional areas -- concession stands, rest rooms -- which will open as the season goes on.
The players, who have been practicing in UFCU Disch-Falk Field, are not fazed by it all.
"It's kind of interesting to be playing baseball and see five bulldozers just chilling next to you," said sophomore Kyle Russell.
Added Randy Boone, "The field is beginning to take shape. It's really pretty cool to see all of the changes on a daily basis."
