Sports
CLU to dedicate new softball field
Hutton Field is a gift from alumni's foundation
THOUSAND OAKS, CA. Leveling
the playing field for women's athletics, California Lutheran
University will dedicate its new softball stadium from 3 to 6 p.m.
Thursday, March 6.
Hutton Field is located next to the George "Sparky" Anderson
Baseball Field as the latest addition to the North Campus athletics
complex. The new venue replaces Gilbello Field, which was located
behind residence halls on the other side of campus. The new field
provides a level playing surface and pristine outfield for the
Regals.
The dedication begins at 3 p.m. with food, music and a team
practice. At 4 p.m., donor Tom Parker of the Hutton Foundation,
former softball standout and current assistant coach Prudence
Kjontvedt and others will make brief speeches and CLU Pastor
Melissa Maxwell-Doherty will bless the field. Parker will throw out
the ceremonial first pitch and the CLU softball team will scrimmage
at 4:30 p.m. The free event is open to the public.
Parker and his wife, Susan, run the Hutton Foundation, a
philanthropic organization started in 1984 at the request of
Susan's aunt, Betty Hutton. The foundation provided $500,000 for
the softball field.
The efforts of the Parkers, who are CLU alumni, to provide funds
for nonprofits and motivate others to do the same earned the
foundation the Philanthropist of the Year Award for Santa Barbara
County from the Association of Fundraising Professionals in 2002.
The Santa Barbara couple has also made personal contributions to
educational institutions and projects throughout Southern
California, including a basketball court at CLU's Mogen Hall that
bears their names.
For more information, contact University Relations at (805)
493-3151.