Drive to enhance ballpark
Heading into its second season, the "2006 Ballpark of the Year" will soon feature updates to the kids' area and entry areas, as well as new additions to provide fans with a fresh game experience. Each of the new enhancements were designed with the fans in mind, as the Drive considered input from its fans during and after the 2006 season.
New for the 2007 season will be the Bi-Lo Playground, Coca-Cola Dugout, the Party Porch, Heritage Plaza, as well as an expanded picnic area. The entire project will cost approximately $1 million, and is being privately funded by the Drive's ownership group.
"We're committed to continually improving the environment at West End Field for our fans," said Drive Co-Owner and Team President Craig Brown. "The West End Field enhancements are unique and will provide a more memorable experience for everyone who visits the park."
A list of the West End Field enhancements is included below:
Bi-Lo Playground - One of the most popular in-park features from last year is receiving a facelift in 2007. The Bi-Lo Kids Playground will be upgraded and moved right behind the berm down the left field line. Young Drive fans will enjoy themselves in the new enlarged, 1,500 square-foot playground, equipped with slides and a climbing area. Parents will be able to watch the action on the field as well as keep an eye on their children from the new area. The play area, which is ADA accessible, will also have netted protection to allow for safe play away from any foul balls.
Coca-Cola Dugout - Located at field level, the Coca-Cola Dugout gives fans an "on the field" view of the game. The field level suite is situated on the first base side of the field, and gives fans a feel of the game action.
"This suite option sets West End Field apart from many other stadiums," said General Manager Mike deMaine. "Fans will be as close to the action as possible while enjoying all the perks our suites have to offer. It equates to a sideline pass to a football game or a backstage pass to a concert."
Spinx 500 Club - The largest outdoor bar and grill in Greenville will also see some changes with expanded food service. Fans will have the opportunity to purchase an array of new food and beverage items, including Philly cheese steaks, lemon pepper chicken sandwiches, and barbeque, without missing any action of the game. The bar area is also being dressed up with the same brick that is used throughout West End Field.
The Party Porch - The place to be at West End Field in 2007 is on the newly elevated party deck, the Party Porch, which accommodates up to 50 guests. Located off the end of the suite level on the third base side, this open air patio deck combines all the amenities of a suite with the ambience of West End Field. Just below the Party Porch will be the birthday zone, a designated area for groups who choose to celebrate a child's special day at West End Field.
Heritage Plaza - Fans will notice a distinct change to the Field Street entrance in the upcoming season, as it changes into Heritage Plaza. Here, fans will be able to follow the progress of former Drive members with the Alumni Call-Up Board. Nostalgic images from Greenville's past will also be displayed in the plaza.
Picnic Area - West End Field's picnic area gives groups a space to dine and socialize at the park. New this year will be an area to feature bands and a covered food station for group functions. The refurbished picnic area is located inside the right field gate and below the Spinx 500 Club.
Suite Entry - Suite holders will also benefit in 2007 with a designated entry into West End Field. Located on Field Street, just slightly up from the main gate, suite holders will be able to skip the lines and board the elevator directly to suite level. In the enclosed area fans will be able to relive the Upstate's illustrious past with a timeline honoring the area's baseball heritage, photos and other local baseball memorabilia and artifacts.
Box Office at Field Street - To meet the high demand for Drive single-game tickets, two additional windows are being installed at the Field Street box office. This addition will make it easier for all fans that park at County Square and ride the Drive's complimentary trolley service to purchase tickets for that night's game.
Concourse Decorations- To enhance West End Field with an even more nostalgic feel, the concourse will be decorated with baseball memorabilia and regalia. Similar to Heritage Plaza, fans can expect to see items remembering the Upstate's baseball heritage.
"We had a phenomenal first year, but we wanted to improve upon some of the areas we felt would give our fans an even better experience when they visit the stadium," added deMaine. "The new additions give our fans even more options of where and how they want to enjoy the game."
A two-day Opening Day Gala at West End Field is scheduled for April 9 and 10, when the Drive starts their 2007 home schedule versus the Columbus Catfish. Season tickets, partial plans, group outings and luxury suites for the 2007 season at West End Field are currently on sale and can be purchased by calling the Drive at (864) 240-4500.