Video feature to be completed in the near future on 35-foot Daktronics system
A new head coach is not the only new addition to Joe Lee Griffin Field this spring.
Samford Baseball will now have a state of the art scoreboard, video board and sound system which will exponentially increase the experience for Samford fans.
The project was made possible by a gift from longtime Samford baseball fan and 1952 Samford graduate (then Howard College) Joe Goode.
Goode, excited for the new possibilities his donation brought to life, told Samford Sports, “This gift is my way to say thank you and give back to the university that means so much to me.” He went on to share his wishes and intentions saying, “I hope that my gift demonstrates my love for both Samford and college baseball.”
The project was initially announced in July of 2021 and it was installed prior to the 2022 season. Though the scoreboard is functioning, the final installation touches are being made to activate the video portion of the board, which could potentially be finished this week.
“We are grateful to Mr. Goode for his gift and for putting this project on the fast track,” head coach Tony David told Samford Sports.
David recognized the importance and meaning of these renovations. Though in his first season as head coach, David has been with the bulldogs for the past 17 seasons.
“This is the latest demonstration of the commitment that our administration and donors have to Samford baseball and our student-athletes,” David told Samford Sports. “It is an addition to our facility that will energize our players and recruits as well as our loyal alumni and fan base.”
Senior pitcher Graham Dvorak shared his own gratitude.
“I think it will really add to the atmosphere and create a better experience for all the fans and players,” Dvorak said. “It’ll give fans more of a reason to attend games and help build the Samford baseball brand.”
The six-figure scoreboard is a Daktronics system measuring 15.6 feet high by 34.8 feet wide and will have a sharp high-definition display that will be fully equipped to show live video, instant replays, and live statistics amongst other things.
Avid baseball fan Cole Eddins has been awaiting this new feature.
“Ever since I heard we were getting a new video board it has been in the back of my mind generating more excitement for the season,” Eddins said. “With the amount of skill on our team, they deserve a place where their highlights can be played for their fans. We no longer have to watch highlight reels on our phones, but now can have it played back in real time!”
Samford’s assistant AD for broadcast and digital media Jon McAfoos commented on the exciting renovations.
“ We’re excited about the addition of a brand-new video board, scoreboard and audio system at Joe Lee Griffin Field,” McAfoos said.
Understanding the impact this will have on individuals in many different positions, McAfoos said everyone is looking forward to the addition.
“From a fan experience perspective, this will be a significant upgrade, allowing us to show live video, replays, stats and more,” he said. “Our content team is excited about the possibilities that come with having a video board at Joe Lee Griffin Field for the first time ever.”
In addition to these renovations, several other projects are expected to be announced by the Samford Administration, including renovations to Seibert gym, Cooney Fieldhouse and the Pete Hanna Center.
Staff Writer
