Where is Lamar University's softball complex? OPINION

[Nelsondj01]

Where is Lamar University's softball complex?

 

Here in Southeast Texas we are fortunate to have a rich history of producing talented athletes.  We are proud of our local talent and we enjoy watching that talent perform in sports such as football, baseball, basketball, volleyball and even golf to name a few.

 

Add fastpitch softball to that list.

 

Our area high schools and select/travel teams produce an impressive list of softball players every year.  It would be great if some of those young ladies would choose to further their playing careers here at home where family and friends could readily cheer them on.

 

Southeast Texas' own Lamar University is a place where that could happen.  But while thankfully Lamar has in recent years reinstated fastpitch softball to its menu of women's sports, their successful softball program still has no home or stadium. That is unbelievable.  Can you imagine a NCAA division 1 softball program without a state of the art softball complex, much less a simple practice field?  Can you imagine how hard this must make the coaches’ job of recruiting?  I understand a location near Vincent-Beck stadium and the soccer complex has been selected.  I also understand that building plans are complete but still there is no hint of construction.

 

How can we expect our local softball players to elect to stay and play for a program without a home?  All of Southeast Texas needs to step to the plate and do what it takes to help build this softball program a complex we can all be proud of.

 

All of the above is solely my personal opinion and no harm is meant towards any individual or institution.

David Nelson

[Nelsondj01]

Here is an update to my post:
Since writing this post yesterday I have been informed that Lamar University expects to have a softball complex finished in time for the start of the 2015 season.  Evidently the architecture firm of BRW has designed the complex and conceptual views can be seen here:
 
http://creative.brwarch.com/2014/07/15/lamar-university-softball-complex-underway/
 
However no ground breaking has taken place yet to my knowledge.

[JWB]

Thats gonna be nice!

[sobadaddy]

Hey Nelson there will be a ground breaking in early August.

 

[Crjj]

We just need to make sure there are no delays in the ground breaking and that construction starts on time to have the facility "operational" for 2015 season. I know that there is also concerns about where the Lady Cardinals will play games/practice for Fall 2014 as well.