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Doug Kingsmore
Stadium / Clemson University Tigers
Before its thorough makeover and renaming in 2003, “Beautiful Tiger Field” described the home of the Clemson Tigers. Not surprising, and not an overstated moniker. While the ballpark and other athletic facilities are closely connected to the western edge of campus, the grandstand view features an appealing pastoral feel. By the looks of it, you might even be tempted to describe the setting as tranquil. But that perception likely will vanish once the Tigers take the field. The crowd is lively, and Kingsmore Stadium’s design only magnifies the dynamic effect. Doug Kingsmore played in the outfield for Clemson in the early 1950s and became the first Tiger to reach double digits in homers. As a senior, he slugged 10 home runs in 1954. Decades later, Kingsmore joined the university’s Board of Trustees and contributed one-fifth of the $5 million cost of renovations completed in 2003.
The major makeover successfully integrated existing core stadium elements with numerous practical and aesthetic improvements. A new façade with overhanging roof provides plaza areas that protect fans from inclement weather during a game, or can be used for a variety of social events year-round. Ballpark security was bolstered with the addition of an ornamental wrought iron and brick fence. The enhanced plaza features a large concession area, and includes tiger-striped pavement and giant tire-paw gardens. Other upgrades include expanded restrooms and press box, enlarged field-level dugouts, four inside batting cages beyond the right field fence, a grand stairway entrance with Hall of Fame area, and seating and parking improvements. With the winding Old Seneca River flowing just outside the stadium and around adjacent parking areas, the site presents a challenge to any major expansion. To Clemson’s credit, the university continually reinvests in the ballpark to keep it among the leading college facilities. In 2005, the football stadium’s old Paw Vision scoreboard was moved to the left of the batter’s eye. In 2008, new lights were installed. Given the steady upgrades, it isn’t surprising to find Doug Kingsmore Stadium named to host NCAA regional tourneys more often than not. A likely factor in the hosting decision is the “Super-Sopper” field drying machine that helps avoid postponed games. Of course, 21 consecutive tournament appearances through 2007 for the Tigers also have to factor in favorably.
In April 2008, Clemson
trustees granted initial approval for $3 million
in new improvements to add 1,000 seats and further
expand concession areas and restrooms. Although
specific details are yet to be worked out, it
appears likely that the standing room area down
the left field line will be reduced or eliminated.
Additional seating will be located in the outfield
and down the left field line. The decision to
expand seating capacity comes as no surprise.
Average game attendance has set new records for
four straight years, climbing to an average of
4,810 per game in 2007. Clemson ranks among the
national collegiate leaders in average attendance.
The University’s commitment to gradually improving
the stadium, coupled with a consistently high
level of play, are likely to keep Tiger home games
in high demand.
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