BGSU to unveil newly renovated Steller Field, funded entirely by donors

The improvements are part of a $3.4 million project that includes a synthetic turf field and additional upgrades

Bowling Green State University will unveil its newly renovated Steller Field during a ribbon-cutting ceremony on March 21, showcasing numerous upgrades designed to elevate the experience for both student-athletes and fans.

The baseball complex now features a synthetic turf field, enhanced perimeter fencing and lighting, and new batting cages, equipment and technology – the result of a $3.4 million renovation project fully supported by generous donors. 

The ribbon-cutting will be held at 12:30 p.m., before the Falcons face Ohio University in their first home weekend series.

"The story of Bowling Green State University baseball and its rejuvenation and renovation started a few years ago with alumni and supporters saving the sport, and it continues today with these significant enhancements to the stadium,” said Vice President for Athletics Derek van der Merwe. “This program continues to thrive because of the passion and vision of so many. It has been a great honor to share this journey with them.” 

The new turf field enhances the team’s ability to train and compete year-round, particularly during the critical early-season months when turf is essential for outdoor baseball in cold-weather climates. It will also extend fall ball sessions into late autumn, preventing weather-related disruptions.

Alumni rally to support renovation project

A fundraising campaign to support improvements to Steller Field began in 2024 and has been backed by generous alumni from across the country, continuing a tradition of strong alumni support for the program.

The BGSU Baseball Alumni Advisory Group comprised of nine former Falcons baseball greats, including MLB standout Orel Hershiser, Jon Berti, Dana Dowers, Jim Fisher, Jason Kelley, David Litzenberg, Roger McDowell, John Mitchell and Andy Tracy, was instrumental in spearheading support for the Steller Field project. 

“We would like to recognize the BGSU Baseball Alumni Advisory Group for ultimately starting this fundraising campaign,” said Nathan Anderson, senior associate athletic director for development. “Through their own philanthropy support, as well as rallying the BGSU baseball alumni community around this project, the vision for this project came to life.”

Distinguished alumnus and longtime BGSU supporter Paul J. Hooker ‘75, who also serves as a national trustee, was among the many donors who supported the project.

Hooker said he was thrilled with the opportunity to support BGSU baseball through the Steller Field Improvement Fund. He followed the team during their record-breaking 2024 season, attending games in Tennessee and Michigan, and formed a relationship with Head Coach Kyle Hallock. 

“It was unbelievable to witness the team’s grit and determination,” Hooker said. “The quality of facilities matters when you’re recruiting and retaining student-athletes. We want to continue building on the team’s momentum and provide them with much-deserved facility upgrades.” 

The late Rodney J. Rupp ’73, an ardent supporter of BGSU athletics, also played a significant role in the field’s renovation through philanthropic support.

Falcons infielder leaves his mark on Steller Field

A distinct feature of the new field is its outfield padding custom-designed by Falcons senior infielder Sam Seidel, a graphic design major.

When the BGSU department of athletics asked the baseball team for design ideas from other stadiums they liked, Seidel took the idea one step further by submitting his original concept.

“I was looking for a few pictures online when I said, ‘I already have these designs,’” he said. “I figured that I might as well just send them in.”

The first-team All-Mid-American Conference second baseman in 2024, Seidel said he was surprised to learn that his concept was not only in consideration – it became the main idea to upgrade his team’s home field.

Within weeks, he was scaling the project, making edits and working with the printing company to make the vision a reality, reflecting Bowling Green’s commitment to blending classroom learning and real-world experience.

First major upgrade in decades

The Steller Field project was completed in late Fall 2025.

The renovation marks the first major upgrade to the ballpark, which opened in 1964, in decades. According to BGSU Athletics, a new scoreboard and updated backstop were installed in 2012. Before then, new bleachers and a press box were added in 2002.