On Thursday, April 26, Bulloch Academy dedicated their newly renovated baseball field. The renovations have totally transformed the complex for the Gators. This project was a joint venture that saw school resources, Athletic Booster Club resources and parental contributions merge to elevate the Gator diamond to a facility that exemplifies excellence.
Bulloch Academy’s Head Baseball Coach Kyle Chambers stated “The facility improvements are beautiful and first class. These improvements provide a point of pride for all of our baseball players and our school. Each team that has visited has made comments on what a dramatic transformation has occurred in just one year.”
This project was managed by Pope Construction Project Manager Bill Vickery.
Included was the installation of a pole and net backstop system, the enlarging and bricking of the dug-outs, the bricking of the press box and concession stand, pouring a pad for patrons to sit and watch the game, installation of a restroom facility, construction of a new bullpen area, replacement of outfield fencing, new windscreens, a massive new flagpole that sits beyond the center field fence, and reworking the entire infield including improved drainage and new sod.
Bulloch Academy Athletic Director Pat Collins commented “Upon my arrival at Bulloch Academy and after completing a needs assessment of our athletic facilities, improving the baseball complex became a top priority. For our students to reach their full potential, we need to provide the best possible facilities for practices and games. This upgrade has accomplished the facility aspect of helping our baseball players become their personal best. Our field has truly become the ‘Prettiest little baseball field’ in this area.”
BA Athletic Booster Club President echoed Coach Collins stating “Many Gators, both past and present, have contributed into making our baseball facility the best in this area. We are committed to providing the best opportunities and facilities to all of our student-athletes.”
Finally, BA Board of Trustee Chairman Joey Cowart added “On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I am proud to announce and present the newly remodeled BA Baseball Stadium. As everyone knows, a project of this magnitude cannot be attributed to the ideas, vision, or work of any one group or person; instead, it is the result of the years of work by so many of our BA Family.
Indeed, without the work and dedication of our Founders and all Families, we would not have had a Stadium to remodel. However, I would be remiss in not specifically mentioning the following individuals who helped in the immediate past few months to help make this dream a reality: Former BA Booster President Randy Childs, Current BA Booster President Will Wren, Bill Vickery and Rob Sharpe of Pope Construction, Jeff Vickery, BA Athletic Director Pat Collins, and BA Head of School Leisa Houghton.
At Bulloch Academy, our focus is upon Academics and preparing our young men and women as they enter post-secondary education and careers, and that focus is evident when reviewing our graduation rates and successful college application process. However, we also understand the importance and role that extracurricular activities such as Athletics play in the development of a well- rounded young person.
Therefore, it is with great pleasure that we dedicate this Baseball Stadium to the past, current, and future Bulloch Academy Family, and, as in all things, to God be the Glory.”
