The University of San Francisco will commence a significant renovation project of the Dante Benedetti Diamond baseball facility this month which will transform the Dons' home ballpark into a modern collegiate facility without compromising its unique urban charm.
"The much-needed renovation of Benedetti Diamond signals the beginning of a very transformative phase for the future of USF Athletics," said Director of Athletics Scott Sidwell. "Modern facilities are a key component for any athletic program that aspires to compete on the national level and I believe the new-look Benedetti Diamond will elevate the stature of baseball program on many levels.
"Once completed, it will be the finest urban collegiate ballpark in the country. We envision the new Benedetti Diamond to be the Fenway Park of collegiate baseball."
The renovations and improvements to Benedetti Diamond, expected to commence this summer, will take place in two phases.
The first phase calls for a complete reorientation of the playing field, with home plate being moved to where the left field corner is now in the present facility. The field itself will be slightly lowered by 18 inches and be completely surfaced with field turf. Modern dugouts and new ticketing booths along with concession structures are also earmarked for the first phase of the project.
The second phase of the project will include new team clubhouse, which will include a team room, meeting room, locker room and training facility. Phase II plans also call additional locker rooms and offices for other USF teams along with a hospitality deck for guests and donors.
Hornberger + Worstell, an architectural firm based in San Francisco, produced the Benedetti Diamond master plan. The firm is recognized for its expertise in the master planning and design of destination resorts, urban business and conference hotels, recreation and wellness facilities, academic and residential communities, as well as the rehabilitation and modernization of historic structures.
The first phase of the project is expected to be completed by the start of the 2016 season. "The new baseball facility is a significant growth opportunity for the University and our athletic program," said head coach Nino Giarratano. "It demonstrates a strong commitment to the student-athlete experience and will provide the opportunity to positively impact the lives of future players who aspire to compete on the highest level for years to come."
The Benedetti Diamond renovation project is the first of three proposed major facility projects which will significantly transform USF's athletic campus in the near future. In addition to the baseball facility, plans call for a significant upgrade to War Memorial Gymnasium, including the construction of a permanent club area on the west side of the facility, along with new office spaces, video room and training facilities. Plans have also been proposed for the construction of an indoor practice facility adjacent to Memorial Gym for both men's and women's basketball teams and for renovations to the Negoesco Stadium soccer facility.
For updates on the Benedetti Diamond renovation project, please go to usfdons.com/donsfacilities.
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The University of San Francisco is committed to developing athletic programs of national distinction while providing our student-athletes with a world-class educational experience at one of the nation's leading Jesuit institutions. USF Athletics is built upon Four Pillars of Success that aim to develop young men and women in this tradition: Excel in the Classroom; Win at the Highest Level of Competition; Engage in the Community: and Become Leaders in the World. By investing in the growth of our student-athletes, you help guarantee a lifetime of victories beyond the playing fields. For more information on how you can support USF Athletics, contact Flynn Ginty (fpginty@usfca.edu) or visit usfdons.com.
