(Versailles, IN) – The South Ripley Community School Corporation says renovations to Forest G. Waters Field at St. Elizabeth Ballpark are complete, and the community is invited to join in two special events celebrating this milestone.
A ribbon cutting ceremony will take place Thursday, April 9, at approximately 5 p.m. prior to the start of the Raiders’ first home baseball game of the season.
This ceremony will officially mark the opening of the newly renovated facility and the first game played on the field.
In addition, the public is invited to attend the Field Dedication Ceremony on Wednesday, April 22, at approximately 4 p.m. prior to South Ripley’s game against Rising Sun.
The evening will feature a baseball and softball doubleheader on the new field, highlighting one of the project’s unique features: the ability to accommodate both sports through the use of a portable mound, portable fencing, and adjustable base configurations.
The renovation project was made possible through the generous support of numerous partners and sponsors.
Lead support was provided by the Cincinnati Reds Community Fund, St. Elizabeth Healthcare, the Tyson Versailles Fund, and South Ripley Community Schools.
Major contributions were also received from the Duke Energy Foundation, Ivy Tech Community College, Rising Sun Regional Foundation, and the Ripley County Community Foundation.
Additional support was provided by Baird Wealth, Rolling Pin Catering, the 1981 Raider Baseball Team, REMC Operation Roundup, Holland’s Insurance, and Napoleon State Bank.
Signage recognizing sponsors will be installed around the facility in the coming weeks, and a Brick Garden near the press box will honor individual contributors to the project.
Special guests from St. Elizabeth Healthcare and the Cincinnati Reds organization, including mascots Rosie Red and Gapper, are expected to attend the April 22 dedication ceremony.
“These renovations reflect the strength of our community and the shared commitment to providing outstanding opportunities for our student-athletes,” said South Ripley Superintendent Rob Moorhead. “We are grateful to all of our partners who made this project a reality and invite the community to celebrate with us.”
Both events are open to the public.
