University of Minnesota Athletics
Siebert Field Legacy Campaign - History & Vision
4/29/2010 12:00:00 AM | Baseball
A Legacy of Achievement
The Minnesota Golden Gophers have posted one of the highest winning percentages in NCAA history and under legendary head coach Dick Siebert (right) won three national championships.
That tradition of success has continued under current head coach John Anderson, whose teams have won 16 Big Ten season or tournament titles. Coach Anderson is the all-time leader in Big Ten coaching victories, and his players are known for their classroom and career success as well as their accomplishments on the field.
Numerous Golden Gophers have gone on to outstanding professional baseball careers, including hall of famers Dave Winfield and Paul Molitor, as well as World Series champion Terry Steinbach.
A Foundation for Future Success
The vision of the intercollegiate athletics program at the University of Minnesota is captured in a simple yet powerful statement...to be the model Division IA athletics department in the nation. Gopher baseball is a proud and vital part of the University's athletic landscape, and baseball's ongoing success is critical to achieving the Athletics Department's overall vision of excellence.
Siebert Field, built in 1971, can no longer support the requirements of a 21st century Big Ten baseball program. Team facilities, concession areas, and other infrastructure are far below current standards. Fan parking and access is restricted, and the stadium does not possess an indoor practice facility.
Over the past decade, the University has made tremendous strides in strengthening the facilities infrastructure necessary for supporting a top Division IA athletics program. In doing so, collaboration has been a constant theme - collaboration with funding partners and collaboration with multiple users to ensure that facility initiatives provide the greatest possible return on investment. Today, Gopher baseball presents a wonderful opportunity to continue this successful approach.
A Long-Term Solution with Multiple Benefits
Due to its facility challenges, the Gopher baseball team has been forced to play many of its home games in the Metrodome. While the Metrodome has been a welcomed short-term solution, the stadium's future is uncertain. As with the Gopher football program, the baseball team requires a long-term, modern home on campus that reinforces a sense of place, ownership, and tradition that is critical for a successful NCAA program.
To this end, the University has developed a plan for a state-of-the-art, multi-use venue that can accommodate the needs of Gopher baseball and support amateur baseball players from across Minnesota. Additionally, the overall project will provide training benefits for other Gopher sports while also improving recreational sports facilities used by the general student body.
Success Beyond Athletics...
Alumni of the Gopher baseball program have gone on to excel in many different career areas. Examples include:
Mike Bailey (1975-78)
Retired president and CEO of Jostens, Inc.
Ryan Lefevbre (1990-93)
Broadcast announcer for the Kansas City Royals
Denny Zacho (1964-67)
Retired CEO and entrepreneur
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