St. Bonaventure University celebrated a major milestone May 31 with a groundbreaking ceremony to kick off long-anticipated renovations to Handler Park at McGraw-Jennings Field.
This historic event marked the beginning of a transformational project aimed at enhancing the facilities for the Bonnies baseball program.
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St. Bonaventure University Breaks Ground on Baseball Field Renovations
St. Bonaventure University celebrated a major milestone May 31 with a groundbreaking ceremony to kick off long-anticipated renovations to Handler Park at McGraw-Jennings Field.
This historic event marked the beginning of a transformational project aimed at enhancing the facilities for the Bonnies baseball program.
The renovations include a new backstop and netting system extending down the third base line; bleacher seating with backrests for over 400 fans; ADA accessible seating behind home plate; a two-story press box with enhanced broadcast and media capabilities and updated sound system all designed to elevate the student-athlete experience and create a more fan-friendly environment.
"We're so thankful to Tom and Michelle Marra for their incredible generosity and continued support of our Athletics program as well as all those who contributed to this endeavor," Vice President and Director of Athletics Bob Beretta said. "This project will dramatically enhance the overall experience for our student-athletes, fans and all visitors to Handler Park at McGraw-Jennings Field for decades to come."
Chicago Fire FC Plan Soccer-Specific Stadium for 2028 Debut
Chicago Fire FC have unveiled plans for a new privately funded, soccer-specific stadium they expect to open in Spring 2028, continuing chairman and owner Joe Mansueto's transformation of the club.
The venue would seat approximately 22,000 fans and be located along the Chicago River just south of Roosevelt Road, acting as the anchor of the city’s future 78th neighborhood.
The project would also include an entertainment district, with the mixed-use development eventually including restaurants, retail, office space, and residential buildings, along with green space and an extension of the Chicago Riverwalk.
“A world-class city deserves a world-class football club – with a world-class home to match. We're building one at The 78," said Mansueto.
"Our privately funded stadium is purpose-built for soccer to give our players an edge and our fans an incredible matchday experience. This development will be transformative for both the Chicago Fire FC and the city of Chicago. Our new stadium will be the anchor of this new neighborhood which will build community, create thousands of jobs, and have a significant positive economic impact."
Ohio Stadium Rolls Out New Seating Experiences for 2026 Season
The Ohio State University Department of Athletics will debut a new section of premium seating at Ohio Stadium for the 2026 football season: South End Zone Premium Seating.
This new seating opportunity will feature nine elevated field-level suites with 12-person capacities located in front of the south stands and 400 premium chairback seats situated on top of this line of suites. These chairback seats will be the widest chairback seats in the stadium.
“We’re proud to introduce a premium seating area on the field level in the south end zone of Ohio Stadium – an investment that reflects our deep commitment to enhancing the fan experience,” Senior Vice President and Wolfe Foundation-Eugene Smith Endowed Athletics Director Ross Bjork said. “This addition is designed for passionate members of Buckeye Nation, bringing greater comfort, improved access to the field level, and a wider range of seating options to better serve even more fans.
“It also marks a small key step in the ongoing modernization of Ohio Stadium – ensuring this iconic and wonderful venue continues to evolve while honoring the traditions that make it so special. We’re dedicated to making every visit to the ’Shoe unforgettable, and this enhancement is another meaningful stride toward delivering the best possible game day experience.”
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