The Field of Dreams Challenge has been issued to the baseball community. The University has approved the Athletics Department’s plan to build a brand new baseball facility on the west side of campus. In combination with an additional $1 million to be raised from former players, coaches and friends of the baseball program, the Athletics Department is willing to commit dollars from reserves and future television revenue for a more comprehensive baseball project.

Though tentative, the project timeline overview is as follows:

·         Potentially following the 2009 season, break ground on a new state-of-the-art baseball facility west of campus near the Soccer Complex and Schwartz Tennis Center;

·         Amenities include expanded seating, press box area and lights, allowing Purdue to host post-season events;

·         Overall cost of the baseball project is approximately $6-$7 million;

·         As a separate cost, the project will also include a multi-purpose building to serve as game-day locker space, concessions/restrooms, storage and meeting space for multiple teams.

This opportunity has prompted Athletics to challenge the baseball family to once again step up to the plate for an additional $1 million — in return for up to $5 million from the Athletics Department. That’s a 5:1 match proving the Athletics Department’s commitment to this project and the "if you build it, they will come" mentality. The goal is to build a premier collegiate baseball stadium eliminating any facility deficiency in the program and providing a much-needed recruiting amenity.

For more information on the Field of Dreams Challenge or to make a gift, contact Brian Silotto at the John Purdue Club office by telephone at (765) 494-3248 or by e-mail at bsilotto@purdue.edu.