GRAND FORKS, N.D. – With Homecoming Week in full effect, there was no better time for the University of North Dakota to celebrate the groundbreaking ceremony for Memorial Village II, which features a state-of-the-art on-campus stadium to mark the homecoming of North Dakota softball.
The newly-named Albrecht Field is part of Memorial Village II, located directly across 2nd Ave. N from the soon-to-be completed Memorial Village, which will provide commercial space and mixed-living opportunities for the community of Grand Forks thanks the to the public-private partnership of UND Athletics, the City of Grand Forks, the Memorial Village Development Group and a generous gift from lead donors Alexa and Dave Albrecht.
DeAnna Carlson Zink, CEO of the UND Alumni Association and Foundation, presented the opening and closing remarks, while UND President Dr. Andy Armacost, Grand Forks Mayor Brandon Bochenski, Memorial Village LLC Partner Steve Burian, Lead Donors Dave and Alexa Albrecht and UND Director of Athletics Bill Chaves gave remarks about the project.
"This is more than a construction project; it's a symbol of what can be achieved through the power of collaboration and shared vision," said Zink. It represents the culmination of efforts by a diverse group of stakeholders and the incredible generosity of our lead donors, Alexa and Dave Albrecht."
The stadium, which is slated to be completed by fall 2024, will feature over 500 spectator seats, a special party deck in left field, a LED videoboard and will be pet friendly.
"What another great day at the University of North Dakota," said Chaves. "There is a lot happening on this side of campus that will forever change the trajectory of UND Athletics. The reason why is simple, we have great teammates and teammates that we have a great connection with. The gratitude from our department runs deep to everyone involved in making this and all other projects happen."
Large dugouts, a dual-purpose batting cage/bullpen and a state-of-the-art turf playing surface are just a few of the amenities that UND softball student-athletes will enjoy. The stadium will be located across the street from the Frederick D. Pollard Athletic Center and soon-to-be constructed Nodak Insurance Company Sports Performance Center, which will feature new locker rooms, weight room and sports medicine area for the softball program.
"We know this field will be a home for UND softball, but we also know this field will be a beacon for youth softball in Grand Forks and across this great state," said Dave Albrecht. "Connections are so important because they tie together the past, present and future and this project is set to do exactly that."
To follow the construction of the project via a live feed, click here.
For more information on North Dakota Athletics, follow on social media @UNDsports or visit FightingHawks.com.
