Pat Kenelly Diamond at Alumni Field: A Legacy of Baseball at Southeastern Louisiana University
Pat Kenelly Diamond at Alumni Field is more than just a baseball venue; it's a testament to the rich history and tradition of baseball at Southeastern Louisiana University (SLU). Located in Hammond, Louisiana, the stadium has been the home of the Lions baseball team for decades and stands as a tribute to Pat Kenelly, a pivotal figure in the university's athletic program.
Honoring Pat Kenelly: A Coaching Legend
The stadium is named after Patrick "Pat" Gumphrey Kenelly, a man who left an indelible mark on Southeastern Louisiana University. Born on October 7, 1922, and passing away on December 12, 2000, Kenelly dedicated a significant portion of his life to SLU athletics, serving in various capacities from 1948 to 1977.
Kenelly's contributions extended beyond the baseball diamond. He served as athletic director, head football coach, and assistant football coach. However, it was his leadership of the baseball program that solidified his legacy. From 1951 to 1964, Kenelly served as the head baseball coach, marking the longest tenure of any head coach in the history of the Southeastern Louisiana Lions baseball program. His impressive record includes leading the Lions to six conference championships (1953, 1954, 1955, 1957, 1962, and 1963). He was recognized for his achievements by being named Conference Coach of the Year twice, in 1962 and 1963. Kenelly amassed 230 wins, a figure surpassed only by Greg Marten and current Lion AD Jay Artigues. The dedication of the diamond to him on February 19, 2006, stands as a fitting honor for his enduring contributions.
A Historical Venue: From Berry Stadium to Pat Kenelly Diamond
The history of the venue predates its renaming. From 1946 to 1951, the Class D and later Class C Hammond Berries called the stadium home, though it was then known as Berry Stadium. This adds another layer to the field's historical significance, linking it to the early days of professional baseball in Hammond.
Modern Amenities and Enhancements
Pat Kenelly Diamond at Alumni Field offers a comprehensive experience for players and fans alike. Stadium features include lighting, dugouts, concession stands, a picnic area, a clubhouse, and a players' lounge. Over the years, the university has invested in numerous upgrades to enhance the facility. In 2011, a donation from Hammond business owners John and Georgianne Poteet enabled the construction of a new indoor hitting facility beyond left field. Prior to the 2012 season, the field lighting was upgraded, and the Lions’ bullpen was relocated behind the scoreboard in left field, adjacent to the new hitting facility. In 2013, a brick backstop along with poles and a netting system was added, further improving the fan experience and safety. A new clubhouse down the left field line is planned to open before the 2024 season.
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An Acclaimed Atmosphere
The atmosphere at Pat Kenelly Diamond is widely recognized as one of the best in college baseball. Athletics director Jay Artigues has noted the stadium's exceptional ambiance. In 2015, a review ranked "The Pat" as the best atmosphere in the Southland Conference, surpassing even some of college baseball's elite programs. The largest crowd recorded at the stadium was 3,747.
Directions to Pat Kenelly Diamond at Alumni Field
For fans traveling to Hammond to catch a game, here are directions to Pat Kenelly Diamond at Alumni Field:
- From Eastbound I-10, I-12 (Baton Rouge): Take I-10, I-12 to Hammond to Interstate 55 North. Go North on Interstate 55 to the Wardline Rd./University Ave. exit (No. 32). Bear right off of exit until you come to a stop light. Go directly through the stop light and at the next stop light (N. General Pershing), turn right and head into campus for approximately 3/4 of a mile. You will see the stadium on your left at the corner of N. General Pershing and W.
- From Westbound I-10, I-12 (Biloxi/Slidell): Take I-10, I-12 to Hammond to Interstate 55 North. Go North on Interstate 55 to the Wardline Rd./University Ave. exit (No. 32). Bear right off of exit until you come to a stop light. Go directly through the stop light and at the next stop light (N. General Pershing), turn right and head into campus for approximately 3/4 of a mile. You will see the stadium on your left at the corner of N. General Pershing and W.
- From Northbound I-55 (New Orleans/LaPlace): Go North on Interstate 55 to the Wardline Rd./University Ave. exit (No. 32). Bear right off of exit until you come to a stop light. Go directly through the stop light and at the next stop light (N. General Pershing), turn right and head into campus for approximately 3/4 of a mile. You will see the stadium on your left at the corner of N. General Pershing and W.
- From Southbound I-55 (Jackson, Miss.): Go South on Interstate 55 to the Wardline Rd./University Ave. exit (No. 32). Bear right off of exit until you come to a stop light. Go directly through the stop light and at the next stop light (N. General Pershing), turn right and head into campus for approximately 3/4 of a mile. You will see the stadium on your left at the corner of N. General Pershing and W.
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