By Ace Grado / Staff Writer

After years on the old field, Missouri Valley College baseball looks forward to an upgrade that will change how the Vikings play, practice and recruit.

Head Coach Mike Demilia said the new field will be a game changer for both performance and player confidence. He added that the new turf and field design aren’t just about looks but are key to keeping up in recruiting.

“Turf is becoming so common now that if you don’t have it, you’re behind,” Coach Demilia said. “Unless you have a super high-end field, teams are going to choose places with turf.”

Along with the turf, upgrades include new fencing, a backstop and a potential scoreboard addition. Future plans could also include updated stands, restrooms and concession areas to enhance the fan experience.

While construction continues, the Vikings have been practicing at Marshall High School’s field. Though it’s a bit of a commute, Coach Demilia said the players have handled the transition well.

“We told them early on it might be inconvenient, but they didn’t blink,” he said. “Everyone’s been excited about what’s coming.”

Assistant Coach Tolar joined Missouri Valley just two months ago, bringing energy and a fresh start from Louisiana.

“The transition’s been good,” he said. “I’m still getting used to the accents up here,” he joked. “But overall it’s been great.”

Coach Tolar said that even with construction underway, the team has maintained its rhythm.

“Player development hasn’t really been affected. We’ve had indoor facilities and Marshall High School has been gracious enough to let us use their field,” he said. “We definitely could be in a worse situation.”

As an assistant coach, Tolar’s also adjusting to leading a larger roster.

“I came from smaller programs, never more than 40 kids, and now we’ve got 56,” he said. “It’s been about learning how to manage that and adapt.”

Junior Gavin Locke, a right-handed pitcher, said the new field is something the whole team has been waiting for.

“I am very excited about the installation of our new field since our last one had some issues,” Locke said. “I think it will help improve our gameplay by improving the conditions that we play on.”

When asked what part of the new field he’s most excited about, Locke didn’t hesitate.

“Since I am a pitcher and a bit biased, my favorite part of the new field will be the new mound and bullpens that will be installed,” he said.

For Locke and his teammates, the upgrades represent more than just better facilities they’re a sign of progress and pride in the direction Missouri Valley baseball is headed.

Missouri Valley baseball’s first scheduled home game on the new field is set for February 13, following an opener at Ottawa on February 6. Coach Demilia hopes the field will be ready by then and believes the finished product will set a new standard for the program.

“It’s going to boost the players’ confidence, help recruiting and give fans something to be proud of,” Coach Demilia said.