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2012 FURMAN UNIVERSITY p BASEBALL Furman Baseball Complex FURMAN BASEBALL COMPLEX T he start of any Furman baseball season generates its own share of anticipation, but this year the excitement has reached a new level with the university's recent ground breaking for the Furman Baseball Complex, which represents Phase 1 of $3.5 million in fa- cility enhancements at Latham Stadium. "We've never been more excited about the future of our program as we are now," said Ron Smith, who is entering his 19th season as head baseball coach at his alma mater. "This facility is indicative of Furman University's commitment to baseball and will be an im- mediate benefit for our current players while also greatly assisting us in recruiting. It will certainly give us the 'wow factor' when people enter the university gates." The complex (see floor plan here), which will be located just beyond the stands down the first base/right field line, includes coaches' offices, locker rooms for both coaches and players, player lounge, training and equip- ment rooms, laundry, and spacious indoor bat- ting and pitching cages. Expected date of completion for the $2 million, approximate 10,000-square foot facil- ity is August, 2012. The architect is McMillan, Pazdan, and Smith and builder is SYS Construc- tors of Greenville. Phase 2 will enhance the fan experi- ence and will include a new press box, con- course, concessions, public restrooms, and additional chair back seating. Furman baseball began play in 1891, making it the university's second oldest sport. A member of the Southern Conference since 1936, Furman has won six league champion- ships and made five NCAA Tournament appear- ances. 3