The tennis, softball and swim facilities received a few updates over the summer. The pool has a new deck and liner, there are now lights on the softball field, and the tennis courts have been resurfaced.
“We found out at the end of spring semester (2019),” said Erin Forgety, a sophomore softball player. “We were very excited. We’ve been waiting all summer to see the progress.”
The lights will allow players to practice later and longer since often team members have class late into the afternoon, which has meant missing practice. The update will allow more consistent practice from the team and the potential for a stronger program.
The lights were funded through donations by Milligan alumni Denny and Cindy Mayes who graduated in 1976 and 1979, respectively. The installation, which began on July 8, took approximately one month to finish.
“It feels like we’re finally being recognized for our accomplishments as a program,” said senior AJ Davidson. “Even though I’ve only been a part of the softball program for four years, we’ve completed so much in the past, and this is really paving the way for us in the future to accomplish quite a bit more.”
The first step for renovating the Mathes Tennis Center involved resurfacing each of the six courts. This included repaving and repainting. More updates are anticipated.
In the lower level of the Steve Lacy Fieldhouse, the pool also received some attention. Its updates include a new bottom surface and decking, an updated filtration system, lights and drains.
According to President Bill Greer, carpeting and other minor renovations are still being completed in the fieldhouse.
“Our current renovations demonstrate Milligan’s commitment to maintaining our tradition of excellence in athletics and the student experience,” Greer said. “We welcome the financial support of friends and alumni who share this vision. We foresee several additional renovations, and their support makes future projects possible, while keeping down the cost of a Milligan education.”
The softball lights will be dedicated on Sept. 19 to honor the donors and celebrate the new development. The event will include a home run derby and an intersquad scrimmage.