The Pat Kenelly Diamond at Alumni Field was recognized by Stadium Journey magazine as No. 16 of the top 25 college baseball stadiums.
“The ranking has a lot to do with the type of atmosphere Lion Nation provides for us,” said Matt Riser, interim head coach for Lions baseball. “It’s a complete effort from our administration, student-athletes, student body, the community and our loyal die hard Lion fans. There is no question it’s a huge home field advantage for us.”
The individual rating of the baseball stadium was broken down into several parts. The characteristics which received the highest rating included “Access,” for the field’s location on campus and parking availability, “Return on Investment” and “Extras,” which include the well-kept field, iron fencing, alcohol sales and affordability, all receiving five-star ratings.
“The access to the stadium has to do with the design and layout of campus. It’s located in a fantastic corner on-campus with great parking right behind the stadium. The parking garage that was added about five years ago has a huge impact on this as well. Not only does it make it accessible but also adds to the atmosphere,” said Riser. “The unique features make ‘The Pat’ one of a kind. Along with our game day promotions and style of baseball makes Lion baseball a trip to remember.”
The aspects of the Pat Kenelly Diamond that received the lowest rating, include “Neighborhood,” which received a three-star rating, and “Food and Beverage,” which received a two-star rating.
While the Lions baseball program takes this ranking with pride, efforts are still being made to improve the Pat Kenelly Diamond and the Lion baseball experience.
“We will continue to improve ‘The Pat’ as we’ve done in the past,” said Riser. “We are extremely excited about the ranking but also want to continue to improve with the rest of nation. There is always room for growth. The amazing thing about it is our guys are very appreciative of what they have and never take it for granted.”