New fence cost $18,000 extra
The person who used to chase stray field hockey balls is thankful for the newly constructed fence around the field.
The field hockey venue received the fence because of that problem and to keep other people off the field.
“Those things run forever when there is nothing stopping them,” said Clint Huhn, director of facilities, of the stray balls.
The fence is four feet tall and is around the perimeter of the field.
It cost $18,000 to construct, which is in addition to the $650,000 spent on the original construction of the field last year. An additional $1,500 was spent on moving sprinkler heads in the path of the fence.
“We are trying to do the appropriate things that will make this a quality Division I facility,” Huhn said.
Field hockey coach Cristy Freese said cheap bleachers on the hill on the east side of the stadium could be a possibility.
“It would have a nice feel to go and watch the game,” she said. “More importantly, the fence will protect the field. It is not standing by itself.”
The fence will also protect the field from any vehicles that could possibly drive on it.
Huhn said the athletic department has a tentative two-year timeline to construct more bleachers.
“Right now we are coming up with seating locations,” he said. “We are still searching to find a more permanent solution.”
The press box used for Lyle Bennett Outdoor Track and the soccer complex will also be used for the field hockey venue.
Huhn said there is no need to construct another press box.
