Maine opens New Batting Facility

520

FROM CBD NEWS SOURCE
ORONO, Maine– The Paul J. Mitchell Batting Pavilion was officially dedicated in a ceremony at the University of Maine on Tuesday, August 21 in front of several hundred people. Construction, which began in May, was recently completed on the indoor batting facility which will be utilized by the Maine baseball team, softball team and the community.

The dedication opened with Maine Director of Athletics Steve Abbott welcoming the crowd. University of Maine President Paul Ferguson then gave some opening remarks. Following President Ferguson, Stuart Price, who donated the money for the pavilion spoke. For Maine Senator George Mitchell, brother of Paul, then spoke to the group that was gathered for the dedication.

Kevin Mahaney, son of Larry Mahaney, who Mahaney Diamond in named for, followed Senator Mitchell at the podium. Paul Mitchell then spoke of how important it was to have a facility like this for the Maine Students-Athletes. Finally, Coach Trimper and junior baseball player Mike Connolly addressed the crowd as to what a valuable asset the pavilion will be.

Following the speaking presentation, Mr. Mitchell went into the Batting Pavilion to take the first official swings.

Among the others in attendance at Tuesday’s dedication were many members of the Mitchell and Price families, Maine Senator Susan Collins, former Governor John Baldacci, former Maine baseball coach John Winkin, America East Commissioner Amy Huchthausen along with many athletic department staff and additional distinguished guests.

The Pavilion, generously funded by donors Stuart and Linda Price, Kevin Mahaney, Tom Savage and Paul Hannigan among others, is named after Paul Mitchell, who is the President and owner of the GHM Agency and is on the University of Maine System Board of Trustees.

The building is situated next to the Mahaney Clubhouse and features two indoor batting areas.

“This is a great boost for our program,” said UMaine baseball head coach Steve Trimper. “In the offseason, this facility will be invaluable. It will allow us to run our offseason hitting practices more effectively and efficiently and will give our players the chance to further develop their skills.”