For Biola’s softball team, the home field now feels a lot more like home.

In January, the team kicked off their season with the dedication of a newly renovated Freedom Field — an upgraded facility complete with new dugouts, bullpens, a team room and other major improvements.

“This new complex will allow us to help recruit players, host regional tournaments and have more outreach camps for the community,” said coach Lorie Coleman, who is in her fourth season with the Eagles. “Our goal is to use our platform as college athletes and coaches to reach the world for Christ through the sport of softball.”

The completion of the first phase of the project marks the first major remodel of the facility since it was converted from a junior high school field to a varsity facility when the program began in 1993. The first phase included two new bullpens, new dugouts, a team room attached to the home dugout, a netted backstop, an equipment storage room and new concrete for the spectator area.

“Over the last decade Biola has invested significantly in its athletic facilities, but until recently the softball field remained untouched,” said Greg Vaughan, vice president of enrollment management, who oversees the athletic department. “We have additional improvements to make in future phases of the project, but this is a wonderful first step in improving and beautifying the facility.”

The complex will serve a team that has enjoyed a great deal of success in recent years. The Eagles have reached the postseason six of the last seven seasons, winning the Golden State Athletic Conference title in 2001 and advancing to the NAIA Softball National Tournament in 2002.

Biola is still looking for alumni and friends to support the second and final phase of the building project. For more information on joining the project, contact coach Coleman at (562) 944-0351, ext. 5935.

What's New

  • Two Bullpens
  • Two Dugouts
  • Team Room
  • Netted Backstop
  • Equipment Storage Room
  • Newly Paved Spectator Area

What's Next

  • Sound System
  • Brick Columns and Gate
  • New Foul Poles and Flag Pole
  • Field Lighting
  • Batting Cage with Sound Wall
  • Public Restrooms and Concession Space
  • Stadium Seating and Press Box