Forever Young: Rider Softball Field Named for Benefactors
Even though the Rider softball team swept a doubleheader from Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference rival Siena on April 12, the day’s biggest hit may have come between games when the Herb and Joan Young Softball Field was officially dedicated before a sparkling new grandstand filled with fans, family members and friends of Broncs Athletics.
The field is being named after Herb and Joan Young, both Rider graduates from the class of 1950, in honor of their generous contribution to the renovations of the softball field, as well as their outstanding support of Rider athletics over the years.
The dedication coincided with the 30-year anniversary celebration of Rider varsity softball as the day’s guests of honor were joined by members from the 1978 softball team.
“I especially enjoy participating in events like this because it provides a great opportunity to recognize the impact our alumni have on Rider’s renewal and on our University’s legacy,” said Rider president Mordechai Rozanski before introducing Herb Young, a past president of the Rider Alumni Association and a current member of the Rider Athletics Hall of Fame committee. “Today is one of those special days.”
Young then stepped up the microphone, situated near home plate at the completely refurbished field, which now includes stadium seating, a press box, an irrigation system, and all new fencing and backstop, to address the crowd.
“God has given us a beautiful and bountiful life, and we are proud to share some of that with Rider today,” he said. “Our love of Rider began more than 60 years ago when its administration and faculty gave us the chance to receive a college education. Since then, these athletics teams have been a big part of our life. We congratulate the softball team for its 30 years of excellence and exciting action on the field.”
Rider began the renovation of the varsity softball field, familiar to many passersby traveling north on the adjacent I-95, in the summer of 2007. The project is part of a larger athletics facilities master plan that provides a special opportunity for philanthropic alumni, parents, friends, faculty and staff to participate in a unique fund-raising campaign. It includes naming opportunities for various elements of the facility, a process in which the Youngs have made a dramatic impact.
“Herb and Joan witnessed the transformation of Rider from its days in Trenton to the development and growth of the University today,” said Rozanski. “They are true sports fans and are well known for attending both home and away games of our basketball and softball teams. But their support doesn’t stop there. They serve as an excellent example of how alumni can support their alma mater with their time, talent and treasure.”
Submtted on April 24, 2008
