Baseball | 07.28.2025

LUBBOCK, Texas (July 29, 2025) — Lubbock Christian University has officially broken ground on a major renovation project at Hays Field, marking the first comprehensive upgrades to the facility since 2009. The long-anticipated improvements will be completed in two phases and are designed to significantly enhance both the student-athlete experience and the overall atmosphere for fans of LCU Baseball.

"We are extremely excited to get moving on this project," head baseball coach Nathan Blackwood said. "This has been in the works for years, and it's time!  This stadium, when it was built in 1978, was beautiful and 'one of a kind,' but it's now time that we make some major improvements for the overall fan and student athlete experience."

PHASE ONE RENOVATION FACTS:

• Cost of Renovation: $2.7 million (private funds)
• Contractor: Collier Construction
• Architect: MWM Architects
• Demolition of field and most seating (press box and center section remain)
• Installation of state-of-the-art field turf across the entire playing surface, including both bullpens
• Construction of professional-style dugouts with built-in restrooms
• A new padded backstop wall and 50-foot-high protective netting
• Upgraded fencing down both foul lines
• New concrete bases for seating along the first and third base sides

"This project marks a significant milestone for LCU Baseball and our entire department," said Andrew Sorrells, Athletic Director. "Phase one will significantly enhance the student-athlete experience for decades to come. Coach Blackwood and his staff have achieved remarkable success, and these renovations will provide the facilities necessary to support their continued accomplishments. We are grateful to the generous donors who have made this possible, and we look forward to advancing momentum as we pursue phase two."

Phase one of the project is already underway and is scheduled for completion prior to the start of the 2026 season. Temporary bleachers will be installed adjacent to each dugout for use during the upcoming season. Fundraising efforts for phase two are ongoing. Phase two will include the demolition of the remaining central seating area (excluding the press box) and the construction of a new, continuous grandstand from dugout to dugout with rear entry for a better spectator experience.

"We are so thankful for the many individuals who have stepped up financially to get this project rolling," Blackwood said. "This has been completely funded by outside donors, and we are so grateful for their generosity and support. We can truly see God at work through the generosity of His faithful stewards. Thank you also to Andrew Sorrells and the LCU Advancement team for all their work in supporting us through this campaign. Now, let's finish Phase 2!"

Originally dedicated on April 29, 1978, as Chaparral Stadium, Hays Field has seen several key improvements over the decades. Lights were added in 1981, a cyclone-style fence was installed in 1985, and Astroturf was introduced early in the stadium's history. A major update in 1999 brought new turf, a modern scoreboard, and a brick façade to the press box and ticket booth. The facility was renamed Hays Field in honor of the L.D., Pearl, Larry, and Daren Hays families, whose enduring support exemplifies the values and spirit of Lubbock Christian University.

Since the start of the 1979 season, the Chaps have compiled a remarkable home record of 1,058-325 at Chaparral Stadium/Hays Field.