Strike 1, strike 2, strike 3! The North Atlanta baseball field has finally struck out after years of its unfaithful persona haunting the campus. The infamous field is getting the long-awaited revamp it deserves, with major innovations. With new competition from the expanded region soon to arrive, the NAHS baseball organization can now gladly welcome them with this marvel.
All athletes have excuses to make for their poor performance, yet NAHS baseball players have no justification for faults, just their unfavorable playing environment. The biggest menace to the season has consistently been the excessive amounts of rainwater and debris that remain on the field due to lack of drainage. This yields a major issue for the team, having to postpone games up to five days later. Players have also complained about the infield clay being too rough, causing errors during games. Senior Brooks Allen is familiar with these circumstances, having to adapt to them since his freshman year. ‘’The outfield either felt like walking in a swamp or a mud pit with no in between,’’ said Allen. ‘’The field was mostly to blame for any mistakes.’’
Past years of complaints and unrest from the NAHS baseball community weren’t for nothing, as this overdue project has finally taken off. Despite the challenging nature of this undertaking, its timeline is quite concise, with the end date expected to be mid-January, just in time for tryouts. This year, players will begin the 2025 season with brand new clay and a drainage system that will cater to the unsuitable spring weather. Players can also look forward to the updated batting cages that will be more promising than in the past. ‘’After renovations, the field will feel brand new,’’ said Ricky Plante, head baseball coach since 2017. ‘’As a coach, I’m excited for this new beginning for the team.’’
Over all the thrill of this project’s commencement, more thrilling is how it will impact the team and season itself. With new nets for the batting cages, the team can more efficiently practice hitting, aiding in offensive success. Additionally, the new clay and drainage system will create a more enjoyable playing environment. ‘’As a senior, I’m grateful I got to spend my last year playing baseball on a new field.’’ said senior Will Overby.
Although waving goodbye to this old friend, or enemy, may evoke nostalgia in some, all Dubs can smile as they wave hello to a new world of opportunity. The field’s more desirable conditions are bound to make future seasons more exciting and full of memories. For players both new and returning, this field will be an advancement worth waiting for.
