MACOMB, Ill. – The Western Illinois softball team recently received a brand new addition to its playing field in preparation for the 2011 season.

Mary Ellen McKee Stadium, home of the Fighting Leathernecks, got a much-needed facelift when the infield was replaced earlier this month. The warning track surrounding the outfield was also replaced.

"We are very excited to have this new infield and warning track," said head coach Holly Van Vlymen. "It was a much needed upgrade since our previous infield was very old.

"I would like to thank Tara Beal, Fred Adair and the rest of the physical plant crew along with Brad Gregus from Mar-Co Clay for all of their hard work with this project. I would also like to thank our administration for their help securing the project. Most importantly, I would like to thank all of our alumni and donors who have helped us raise money for our new infield and warning track."

The new infield was laser-graded and given a new, clay-based surface from Mar-Co. The project also included a new dirt warning track, which is expected to drain better than the old rock-based track. The project also included new clay-based areas around the pitching circle, batter's box and catcher's box to improve durability throughout games.

The new additions are also key as the Leathernecks will host the 2011 Summit League Softball Championships.

"Our student-athletes will benefit greatly from this new infield," said Van Vlymen, "it will be a lot of fun hosting our home games this season along with this year's Summit League Tournament in the great facility of Mary Ellen McKee Stadium."

Western Illinois will play on the new surface for the first time when it plays host to Kirkwood C.C. in an exhibition doubleheader on Sept. 19 as part of its fall schedule.