Independence Local Schools Unveils Major Baseball Field Upgrades

After years without improvements, Independence High School's baseball field has undergone a major transformation. Community members were invited to see the upgrades at a first pitch ceremony on Sunday, April 28 at 3pm. The ceremony was followed by a community youth baseball camp.

The renovated field mirrors a top quality college baseball complex, with new dugouts, fencing, a scoreboard, sound system, drainage system, approximately 90 stadium-style seats behind home plate, newly installed grass infield, and more added over the past year. Funding came from a mix of district funds, athletic boosters, major private contributors, community donations, and even a $5,000 Cleveland Guardians Field Improvement grant.

Interim Superintendent Tom Dreiling said, “We’re grateful to everyone who contributed and made these state-of-the-art upgrades possible after more than 20 years."

New features include an irrigated infield, extended stadium seating for home fans paid for through nameplates on each seat, separate bleachers for visitors, and a pro-style backstop and bullpen.

“The Independence baseball family, our friends and supporters, past and present, have made this possible for today’s players and for future generations,” said varsity head baseball coach Jim Crooks. “This field renovation project is certain to inspire future Independence baseball players for years to come.”

Many thanks to all of the donors who made this baseball field transformation possible:

Independence Board of Education

Independence Athletic Boosters

DiGeronimo Family

Precision Environmental

North Coast Concrete

Cleveland Guardians Charities

Dalrymple Family

Andryszczyk Family

Butcher Family

Carriero Family

Crooks Family