North Florida Athletics has completed the first phase of renovations at Harmon Stadium, home to North Florida Baseball. The project aims to improve the experience for student-athletes and fans, as well as modernize the facility for hosting various events.
Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics Nick Morrow stated, “Today marks an exciting milestone for North Florida Baseball. This renovation isn’t just about upgrading a facility. It’s about investing in the student-athlete experience, elevating the future of our program, and creating an environment our campus, alumni and community can be proud of. I’m grateful for the support of our donors, sponsors, and university leadership who helped bring this vision to life. Together, we’re building something that will impact generations of Ospreys to come.”
Head Coach Joe Mercadante commented on the project’s significance: “North Florida Baseball has always been defined by grit, heart and tradition. With this renovation, we honor that history while building a foundation for the program’s next chapter. Everyone in our program is extremely thankful to everyone who had a hand in this amazing renovation.”
Assistant Athletic Director of Facilities and Grounds Corey Levine highlighted one major improvement: “The installation of our new AstroTurf Diamond Series baseball field will be a game-changer for our baseball program. The quality of the surface, attention to detail and professionalism throughout the process exceeded our expectations. The field looks incredible and provides a consistent, high-performance playing surface that our student-athletes can be proud of.”
Phase I included installing an artificial turf field by AstroTurf and a padded outfield wall sponsored by Bragan Better Baseball Foundation. The outfield now features new elements such as a 14-foot right field wall and “Cook Corner” in left field named after the Cook Family. Additional upgrades were provided by Baker’s Sports and Burbank with netting and padding installations; Newsome Fencing contributed elevated fencing around the stadium.
For spectators, improvements include “PIT” seating with 82 Dream Seats presented by Bono’s of America for premium on-field viewing. Families have access to a dedicated Family Fun Zone supported by W.W. GAY Mechanical Contracting.
Other enhancements involve an alumni lounge and renovated bathrooms handled by Scorpio with support from Andy and Roxanne Rodgers. The Alumni Giving Back Wall inside “The Nest” recognizes contributions from past players.
Levine added praise for all vendors involved: “Our recent baseball facility renovation was a success thanks to the outstanding work of our vendor partners… AstroTurf led the way with a top-tier artificial turf playing surface replacement that has completely revitalized the field—enhancing performance, playability, and overall aesthetics… Newsom Fence followed with fencing replacement around the entire facility… The installation of the Dream Seats in the Bonos Pit premium seating area has truly elevated the experience for our guests… Burbank Sports Nets completed the transformation with full field wall padding and protective netting replacements… Together, these partners helped us create a first-class baseball environment our athletes and campus community can be proud of.”
Naming rights opportunities and premium seating options are still available at Harmon Stadium; more information can be found through North Florida Athletics Development staff or at UNFOspreys.com.
