PORTALES, N.M. – Renovations have been completed on Greyhound Softball Field, just in time for Eastern New Mexico softball's home opener against Lubbock Christian University on Feb. 25, with first pitch of the double header scheduled for 2:00 pm. The infield has been transitioned from a clay infield to a synthetic turf infield.

"With the completion of the new turf infield, the team is excited and ready to play on it for the first time this Friday, Feb. 25" said Head Softball Coach Amanda Fefel. "There was a lot of moving parts to get this project done, but we as program couldn't be more appreciative and grateful to all the individuals who had a hand in making this project a success. To see the players reactions when it was finally done was priceless" said Fefel.

The Greyhound Softball field was opened in 1999 and is 200 feet deep to the corners and 220 feet to center field. In 2005, the fieldhouse was built on the softball complex to serve as offices for coaches, conference rooms, and locker rooms next to the field. The complex also features batting cages, bullpens, and storage rooms.

"This is a huge benefit for our program in regards to recruiting and facility updates. To have a major project like this completed is a testament to the support that the athletic administration and those across campus have had to the ENMU Softball program, and the current and future student athletes is amazing".

The two-week installation process took place in the in the final weeks of January. The official surface installed by Sprinturf is DFE Extreme 64 manufactured by Sprinturf. Sprinturf DFE Extreme is a combination of monofilament and parallel-fibrillated that interlock, which reduces infill flyout. Sprinturf has done over 2,000 turf installations across the country ranging from high school to professional facilities. 

"This our first major athletic facility project since the football stadium when it was completed in 2016" said Director of Athletics Dr. Paul Weir. "We are so happy for Greyhound softball and the wonderful people who make up the program, both past and present. We hope everyone comes out and supports the team while enjoying the beautiful new field".

The Hounds are expected to play 11 doubleheaders during the 2022 season, including its home opener on Friday, Feb. 25, with a doubleheader scheduled against Lubbock Christian University. First pitch on the new turf is expected for 2 pm.

GREYHOUND SOFTBALL FIELD