Courtesy: Joey Brent
FROM CBB NEWS SOURCE
As the Feb. 24 first pitch against Central Arkansas approaches, the exciting renovation of Oxford-University Stadium/Swayze Field is nearing completion and preparations are being made for the upcoming 2009 campaign.
“Based on Wednesday’s progress meeting with the Panola Construction Company, there are no obstacles to prevent a fully operational facility for the homer opener,” said Blake Barnes, Ole Miss Senior Associate Athletics Director for Facilities.
All grandstand seats as well as the concrete concourses and gates will be in place. In addition, the parking lots surrounding the stadium will be cleaned and open to the public.
The luxury Diamond Club as well as the stadium’s restroom and concession areas will be operational, and Panola Construction is optimistic that many of the finishing details will be complete. The final touches on the stone and brickwork of the stadium facade may also still be in the works.
Outfield seating will remain intact, although the restroom and consession area at the end of the leftfield line will be closed to the public at the season’s start. The centerfield restrooms will also still be under construction. These and any other existing details of the project are to be wrapped up in time for Southeastern Conference play In March.
The overhaul of Oxford-University Stadium will result in a total capacity exceeding 10,000. Some of the amenities being added include 880 club seats between first and third base, as well as an increase in box seats from 400 to approximately 1,700. The overall number of chairback seats will rise from 2,951 to over 6,000, and fans will be able to enjoy concession areas in the stands and additional restroom areas with handicap accessibility.
Ole Miss opens the season on the road with the three games in Mobile, Ala. The Rebels face Liberty on Feb. 20, Mercer on Feb. 21 and the host South Alabama on Feb. 22.
