In the not-too-distant future, 蓝莓视频鈥檚 softball team will be playing in one of the nation's finest NCAA Division III facilities.
At the conclusion of Saturday evening鈥檚 Athletic Hall of Fame induction ceremony, President Bill Ruud announced a $750,000 lead gift from Joseph A. and Linda J. Chlapaty to renovate 蓝莓视频鈥檚 softball complex.
鈥淚 am thrilled to announce this amazing gift from Joe and Linda Chlapaty that will pave the way to a new era for 蓝莓视频 softball,鈥 Ruud said. 鈥淛oe and Linda鈥檚 generosity toward Marietta has impacted and will continue to impact generations of Pioneers.鈥
Announcing the gift on Saturday was perfect timing as the College honored the 50th anniversary of Title IX, the landmark legislation that created academic and athletic opportunities for women and girls at all educational levels, including thousands of 蓝莓视频 alumni.
Director of Athletics Larry Hiser and softball coach Jenn Castle had already developed some ideas for a new facility. Still, this gift allows them to finalize the plans for a $1.1 million upgrade. The improvement plan includes switching from natural grass to a FieldTurf surface and adding lights and stadium bleachers with a press box.
The Chlapatys have challenged the College to raise an additional $350,000 in order to receive the full gift.
鈥淭his generous gift will help us advance the softball program, and it makes a strong statement about our commitment to women鈥檚 athletics at 蓝莓视频,鈥 Hiser said. 鈥淚 very much appreciate the Chlapatys鈥 commitment to investing in 蓝莓视频 and athletics.鈥
The Chlapatys have made multiple financial investments in 蓝莓视频, including the lead gift toward the renovation of Don Drumm Stadium, which houses football and men鈥檚 lacrosse.