SPOKANE — Opening day preparations at Avista Stadium began long before players took the field, with staff working since early morning to ensure every detail was perfect for the season opener.
Director of Grounds Tony Lee started his work at 6:30 a.m., focusing on the field that has earned recognition throughout the league.
“I think that’s the biggest part of the show right there is when you walk up that tunnel and you see that green grass,” Lee said.
The attention to detail has paid off for the stadium.
“Our groundskeeper won the groundskeeper of the year in our league last year. And that’s kind of his goal and expectation every season, so I always say, especially this time of year, it is the greenest lawn in Spokane,” said Kyle Day, general manager of the Spokane Indians.
This season brings significant upgrades to enhance the fan experience. A new video display monitor measuring 26 by 60 feet now towers over left field, designed to show replays, graphics and batting orders.
“The video, the audio, everything has been upgraded. And our goal is that it enhances the great fan experience that people have come to expect from the Spokane Indians at Avista Stadium,” Day said.
The improvements come after a challenging off-season that began with disaster in September. An air conditioner malfunction caused a fire that destroyed the stadium’s concession stand.
“It was kind of devastating. You know, I guess things happen that are out of your control,” Lee said.
Construction crews are working to rebuild the concession facilities, with plans to open a new concession stand on June 1. Stadium officials assure fans that food options will remain available during the interim period.
“The same amount of places to purchase food from the menu will be a little bit less than what it has been in the past. But we have all the favorites,” Day said.
Despite the setbacks, Lee maintains his enthusiasm for the game that brings the community together.
“I’m always excited for Opening Day. You work so hard to put on a good presentation and then finally the gates open and everybody gets to see how you work,” Lee said.
For Lee, baseball’s universal appeal transcends location and circumstances.
“It doesn’t matter if it’s 509 or 305, the bases are 90 feet apart, you know?” he said.
The opening weekend features special events for fans, including fireworks shows and an Easter Sunday appearance by the Easter Bunny.
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