Key Takeaways
- Top-Notch Facilities: Features a regulation-sized diamond with synthetic turf and state-of-the-art LED lighting for both day and night games.
- Ample Seating: Accommodates up to 1,500 spectators with a variety of seating options, including bleachers and reserved sections.
- Prime Location: Situated in South Windsor, Connecticut, with easy access and ample parking around Marist College campus.
- Modern Amenities: Equipped with comfortable locker rooms, diverse concession stands, and a digital scoreboard for an enhanced viewer experience.
- Exceptional Maintenance: Regular upkeep of the lush playing surface ensures consistent, high-quality gameplay throughout the seasons.
- Community Hub: Hosts numerous events, including youth leagues and NCAA tournaments, fostering local sports and community engagement.
Nothing beats the excitement of stepping onto a great baseball field, and the James J. McCann Baseball Field never disappoints. From the lush green grass to the perfectly maintained diamond, every detail seems crafted for unforgettable games.
Walking through the gates, you instantly feel the community spirit that pulses through the stands and players alike. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just here to enjoy the game, this field offers something special for everyone. I’ve spent plenty of afternoons here, and each visit reinforces why it’s such a beloved spot for baseball enthusiasts.
Join me as I dive into what makes the James J. McCann Baseball Field stand out. From its top-notch facilities to the vibrant atmosphere, let’s explore why this field is a gem for both players and fans.
Overview
James J. McCann Baseball Field is located in South Windsor, Connecticut, serving as a premier destination for baseball enthusiasts in the region. The facility spans 5 acres, featuring a regulation-sized diamond with synthetic turf that ensures consistent play conditions year-round. Seating arrangements accommodate up to 1,500 spectators, offering ample space for fans to enjoy the game.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | South Windsor, Connecticut |
| Field Size | 5 acres |
| Seating Capacity | 1,500 |
| Surface | Synthetic Turf |
| Lighting | LED systems for night games |
| Amenities | Locker rooms, concession stands, scoreboard |
The stadium includes modern locker rooms equipped with essential amenities, providing comfort for players and coaches. Concession stands offer a variety of food and beverages, enhancing the spectator experience. The LED lighting system supports high-quality evening games, while the digital scoreboard delivers real-time updates and statistics.
As a coach, I utilize the spacious outfield for training sessions, benefiting from the well-maintained facilities to develop youth teams effectively.
Location And Accessibility
James J. McCann Baseball Field sits on Marist College’s campus in Poughkeepsie, New York, right next to the James J. McCann Recreation Center at the south end.
Directions
To reach the McCann Baseball Field, I usually follow these directions:
- Take I-87 (New York State Thruway) north or south to Exit 18 (New Paltz/Poughkeepsie).
- Follow Route 299 East to Route 9 South.
- Continue on Route 9 South for about 5 miles.
- Turn left onto Route 9G (North Road), then right onto Champagnat Way to enter the Marist College campus.
Parking Availability
Parking is readily available in several lots around the Marist College campus. I often park near the James J. McCann Recreation Center or use other designated campus parking areas.
Facilities And Amenities
The James J. McCann Baseball Field is integrated into Marist College’s athletic complex, providing a range of facilities and amenities for players and spectators.
Playing Surface
The field is part of the Gartland Athletic Fields, encompassing 10 acres of high-quality turf. The playing surface consists of a Kentucky bluegrass, rye, and fescue mix, set on a sand and organic material base. An irrigation system installed in 1990 maintains the turf’s condition throughout the playing season.
Equipment Availability
The Gartland Athletic Fields support multiple sports, including baseball. The James J. McCann Baseball Field is equipped with essential baseball gear, allowing athletes to train effectively and enjoy their games.
Spectator Experience
I always enjoy watching games at James J. McCann Baseball Field. The atmosphere and facilities make each visit memorable.
Seating Options
The stadium accommodates up to 1,500 spectators with various seating choices:
| Seating Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Bleacher Seats | Traditional seating with elevated views of the field |
| Reserved Sections | Designated areas providing enhanced comfort |
| General Admission | Accessible seating for all fans without assigned seats |
Elevated bleachers offer clear views, while reserved sections ensure a more comfortable experience.
Concessions And Restrooms
Concession stands provide a range of snacks and drinks:
- Hot dogs
- Nachos
- Soft drinks
- Popcorn
Restrooms are conveniently located within the McCann Center, just steps from the field’s gate, making access easy during the game.
Maintenance And Cleanliness
Keeping the James J. McCann Baseball Field in top shape is a priority for ensuring a great experience for players and fans alike. The field features a natural turf surface made from a mix of bluegrass, rye, and fescue, all rooted in a sand base. This combination, along with the installed drain tile, provides excellent drainage. It minimizes rain-outs, ensuring games proceed smoothly even after heavy rains[^1][^3].
Field Surface and Irrigation
The turf is maintained using 53 sprinkler heads, which keep the grass healthy and vibrant. This efficient irrigation system ensures the field remains playable throughout the season. Regular mowing, fertilizing, and aerating are part of the routine maintenance, promoting a lush and resilient playing surface.
Renovations and Upkeep
Significant renovations enhance the field’s functionality and appearance:
2011 Renovations
- Installed a new warning track.
- Added a closer fence to home plate.
- Upgraded the scoreboard for better visibility[^1].
2007 Renovations
- Removed the old backstop.
- Installed a new netting system, offering unobstructed views from behind home plate[^1].
These updates ensure the field meets high standards and provides a safe, enjoyable environment for everyone.
| Maintenance Task | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Irrigation Check | Weekly |
| Turf Mowing | Bi-weekly |
| Fertilizing | Monthly |
| Aerating | Quarterly |
| Drainage Inspection | After Heavy Rains |
Regular inspections and timely maintenance keep the field clean and ready for action, reflecting the commitment to excellence at James J. McCann Baseball Field.
[^1]: Source: Marist College Athletic Department
Community And Events
James J. McCann Baseball Field serves as a hub for local sports and community gatherings. It’s not just the Marist College Red Foxes who call this field home. The venue hosts numerous youth baseball leagues, providing a quality space for young athletes to develop their skills.
Annual Events
- MAAC Conference Tournaments: Each spring, the field accommodates competitive NCAA Division I games, attracting fans from across the region.
- Community Baseball Clinics: Local coaches lead clinics weekly, fostering talent and encouraging youth participation.
- Season Opening Ceremonies: These events feature speeches, player introductions, and family-friendly activities, enhancing the game-day experience.
Facilities for Community Use
| Facility | Description |
|---|---|
| Recreation Center | Adjacent to the field, offers additional sports amenities |
| Concession Stands | Provide snacks and beverages during events |
| Seating Areas | Accommodate up to 350 spectators comfortably |
Engagement Opportunities
I enjoy attending these events, whether supporting the Red Foxes or coaching youth teams. The field’s well-maintained facilities and vibrant atmosphere make every event memorable. Community members appreciate the accessibility and range of activities available, strengthening local ties through sports.
Conclusion
James J. McCann Baseball Field holds a special place in my heart The inviting atmosphere and excellent facilities make every visit a pleasure Whether I’m coaching or cheering from the stands the sense of community never fails to uplift me It’s a fantastic spot for anyone who loves baseball and enjoys being part of a vibrant community I look forward to many more memorable moments at this amazing field
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the James J. McCann Baseball Field?
The James J. McCann Baseball Field is a premier baseball facility located on the Marist College campus in Poughkeepsie, New York. Covering 5 acres, it features a regulation-sized diamond with synthetic turf, modern amenities, and seating for up to 1,500 spectators. The field is a key part of the Gartland Athletic Fields and serves as a hub for various baseball events, including NCAA Division I games and community leagues.
Where is the James J. McCann Baseball Field located?
The James J. McCann Baseball Field is situated on the Marist College campus in Poughkeepsie, New York. It is adjacent to the James J. McCann Recreation Center, making it easily accessible via several key routes and landmarks. Ample parking is available in multiple lots around the campus, ensuring convenient access for visitors.
What facilities are available at the James J. McCann Baseball Field?
The field boasts a range of modern facilities, including synthetic turf for consistent play conditions, an LED lighting system for night games, a digital scoreboard, and spacious locker rooms. Additionally, there are concession stands offering snacks and drinks, restrooms within the McCann Center, and various seating options like bleachers and reserved sections for enhanced comfort.
How many spectators can the James J. McCann Baseball Field accommodate?
The James J. McCann Baseball Field can accommodate up to 1,500 spectators. The seating options include traditional bleachers, reserved sections, and general admission areas, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable viewing experience for all fans. The field also features an LED lighting system and a digital scoreboard to enhance the game-day atmosphere.
What amenities are available for players at the field?
Players at the James J. McCann Baseball Field benefit from modern locker rooms, access to essential baseball gear, and a high-quality playing surface maintained with a Kentucky bluegrass, rye, and fescue mix. The field is supported by an efficient irrigation system with 53 sprinkler heads, ensuring the turf remains healthy and resilient throughout the season.
How is the James J. McCann Baseball Field maintained?
The field is meticulously maintained through regular mowing, fertilizing, and aerating to keep the grass healthy and vibrant. An advanced irrigation system ensures consistent watering, while significant renovations over the years have upgraded the warning track, scoreboard, and backstop. These efforts ensure a top-notch playing surface and a safe environment for both players and spectators.
What types of events are hosted at the James J. McCann Baseball Field?
The James J. McCann Baseball Field hosts a variety of events, including youth baseball leagues, NCAA Division I games during the MAAC Conference Tournaments, and community baseball clinics. It also serves as a gathering place for local sports events and community activities, fostering strong ties and a vibrant atmosphere for baseball enthusiasts.
What is the spectator experience like at the James J. McCann Baseball Field?
Spectators at the James J. McCann Baseball Field enjoy a memorable atmosphere with ample seating options, including bleachers and reserved sections. Concession stands offer a variety of snacks and drinks, such as hot dogs and nachos, while restrooms are conveniently located within the McCann Center. The LED lighting and digital scoreboard enhance the overall game-day experience.
How accessible is the James J. McCann Baseball Field for visitors?
The field is highly accessible, located on the Marist College campus with clear directions and multiple parking lots available for visitors. Its proximity to key routes and landmarks makes it easy to reach, whether you’re attending a game, coaching a youth team, or participating in community events. The well-maintained infrastructure ensures a smooth and convenient visit for all attendees.
Why is the James J. McCann Baseball Field significant to the community?
The James J. McCann Baseball Field is a cherished community hub that brings together players, fans, and local residents. Its well-maintained facilities and vibrant atmosphere support various baseball activities and events, fostering a strong sense of community spirit. Whether hosting competitive games or casual gatherings, the field plays a vital role in promoting sportsmanship and community engagement.
