Furman University

2012 Furman Football Yearbook

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2012 FURMAN PALADINS p FOOTBALL LATHAM BASEBALL STADIUM O John T. and Gloria Latham, the parents of former Paladin All-Southern Conference performer and Furman benefactor Tommy Latham and his family in May of 2008, possesses as much charm and character as any baseball complex in the league. Located in the heart of Furman's modern athletics complex on one of ne of the first on-campus facilities constructed prior to Furman University's move from downtown Greenville in the late 1950s, Latham Baseball Stadium, named in honor and memory of Dr. the nation's most scenic campuses, Latham Stadium boasts an outstanding, well-maintained playing surface of Bermuda and rye grass known for its consistency and smoothness. With seating for 2,000, the stadium offers fans an excellent venue for enjoying collegiate baseball. In 2001, Latham Baseball Stadium underwent a significant improve- ment with the addition of lights that meet standards for Double A and Triple A professional baseball. On April 13, 2001, the Paladins hosted Southern Conference foe UNC Greensboro in the first home night game ever played on campus. In the spring of 2012 the university broke ground on the Furman Baseball Complex, which represents Phase 1 of $3.5 million in facility enhancements at Latham Stadium. The complex, which is 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 equipment rooms, laundry, and spacious indoor batting and pitching cages. Expected date of completion for the $2 million, approximate 10,000-square foot facility is August, 2012. The architect is McMillan, Pazdan, and Smith and builder is SYS Constructors of Greenville. "We've never been more excited about the future of our program as we are now," said head coach Ron Smith. "This facility is indicative of Furman University's commitment to baseball and will be an immediate benefit for our current players while also greatly assisting us in recruiting. It certainly gives us the 'wow factor' when people enter the university gates." Phase 2 will enhance the fan experience and include a new press box, concourse, concessions, public restrooms, and additional chair back seating. Since its opening on March 20, 1956, Latham Baseball Stadium has served as the home of six Southern Conference championship teams, including the 2005 Paladin squad that advanced to the NCAA Atlanta Regional after claiming the league's tournament championship. Latham Baseball Stadium measures 330 feet down the left and right field lines, 350 feet to left center field, 371 feet to the right center field power alley, and 393 feet to the center field fence. Latham Baseball Stadium 74

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