UNLV’s new softball facility draws praise from players

Victoria Sun

Friday, Jan. 25, 2002 | 9:44 a.m.

UNLV softball player Arica Painter didn't mince words when comparing the team's brand new home, Eller Media Stadium, to its old digs at Rebel Diamond.

"This is amazing," Painter said, scanning the facility Thursday before practice. "It's just a totally different feeling being here.

"It's our home. It's not some field where students walk by and throw trash on."

The UNLV softball team will christen Eller Media Stadium with a free alumni exhibition game at noon on Saturday.

Former All-American and Olympic gold medalist Lori Harrigan and former All-Americans Christine Parris-Washington, Amie Stewart and Tricia Reimche are expected to compete for the alumni.

Gates will open at 10:30 a.m., with a dedication ceremony preceding the game at 11:30 a.m. The first 125 fans will receive commemorative bats.

Lady Rebels head coach Shan McDonald said the new stadium, located at the corner of Harmon Avenue and Swenson Street, will help boost the program in many ways.

While Rebel Diamond was a bare-bones field fit more for Little League than Division I softball, Eller Media Stadium is replete with two cages, drill areas, a spacious dugout and about 800 chair-back seats. It cost $2.5 million to build and was financed through private donations.

The new facility also has a ticket office, concession stands and an "incredible" sound system, according to McDonald.

"From a player's standpoint, the playing surface itself is so true, you don't get any bad hops," McDonald said. "I think having this stadium puts us in the recruiting game with players we otherwise wouldn't have an opportunity to get."

UNLV finished last season 26-30, 7-13 in the Mountain West.

The team's first home game will be a doubleheader against St. Mary's at 1 p.m. on Feb. 5.

Fans can purchase 2-for-1 season tickets for $35 on Saturday.