by Jules Gonsoulin
sports editor
As the softball and tennis teams begin their seasons, renovations to both programs’ facilities are nearing completion after months of planning and construction.
Interim Co-athletic Director and men’s and women’s tennis Head Coach Jason Box said that the facilities “should be finished soon; hopefully they will be completely finished within the next three weeks.” He also elaborated on the features of the new buildings, which are beginning to take shape. Box says, “The new facilities include a press box and stadium seating for softball. The tennis building will house bathrooms for both sports, an upstairs viewing deck, and an indoor meeting space for fans and teams.”
The new facilities are part of the athletic department’s total renovation of the baseball, softball, and tennis spaces. The baseball stadium got a new look last year, as the college funded a new seating area and press box, complete with Millsaps athletic logos which can be seen from North State Street.
Box is optimistic that the upgrades will boost recruiting within both programs, and also encourage students to support the squads in home matches and games. He says, “The upgrades to the softball facilities are going to help the softball program tremendously. The updates have already gotten a lot of attention from prospective student-athletes. Once the project is completed I think that it will have a very positive impact on our recruiting. Current members of our team, parents, and alumni are extremely excited about all of the changes. It has created a great deal of excitement within our program.”
Regarding the tennis program, Box is equally excited for the opportunities the new facilities present. He says, “The upgrades put our tennis facility as one of the best in the SAA. This will be a great space for our student athletes to study, prepare for matches and practice, and enjoy time relaxing. It will help our spectators have an amazing view of all six courts, as well as a place to view the matches away from the elements.”
The tennis teams begin match play on February 17 against Belhaven. The softball team opened their season on February 6 with a double header against Louisiana College, losing 0-4, then winning 9-5.