TERRE HAUTE, Ind. – Indiana State University has broken ground on a major upgrade to Bob Warn Field, with construction already underway on the new Blackwell Bullpen deck, set to debut in time for the 2026 Sycamore baseball season. The addition, located beyond the right field wall, will further enhance the fan experience while honoring a longtime supporter of the program.
The 24-by-64-foot structure, entirely privately funded, was made possible through a lead gift from the Blackwell family. Stretching from the right field foul pole to the video board in right-center, the deck will feature two levels of countertops, giving fans new viewing options and more space to gather. Standing nine feet above the ground at its lowest point, the elevated deck will provide spectators with unobstructed views of the action.
Stairs and an ADA-accessible ramp will connect the new seating area to the main concourse, with access points located near the Indiana State baseball clubhouse. Once completed, the deck will accommodate up to 125 people, with special rates for corporate groups and fan organizations expected to be available for the 2026 season.
"As the energy surrounding our baseball program continues its upward trajectory, it is incredibly exciting to see this project reach the construction stage," said Indiana State Athletic Director Nathan Christensen. "Having the opportunity to enhance both our student-athlete experience as well as the game day environment for our fans is exciting. It has been a pleasure to get to know the Blackwell Family over the course of this past year. As we all know they have been very supportive of Indiana State University for decades and we are honored and thrilled that they continue to invest in our university and athletics department."
The project carries special meaning for the Blackwell family. "Before Mike passed away last summer, he was adamant about adding seating and a gathering area at Bob Warn Field," said Mary Blackwell. "This gift is a way of adding onto the stadium and honoring Mike's legacy as well. He loved Indiana State and as his family we want to continue his desire to better all Indiana State Athletic Facilities."
Sycamores head coach Tracy Archuleta echoed the importance of the addition, noting its impact on both the team and fans. "Thank you to the Blackwell family for their continued support of the Indiana State baseball program with the creation of the Blackwell Bullpen," Archuleta said. "This added feature will only enhance the game day atmosphere for our fans and our team as we continue our preparations for the upcoming 2026 season."
Bob Warn Field, home to one of the Midwest’s premier Division I baseball programs, has seen steady upgrades over the past decade. Improvements have included a FieldTurf infield, modernized locker rooms and coaches’ offices, expanded seating options with chairback and bleacher sections, a larger press box, and upgraded parking facilities. The Blackwell Bullpen represents the next step in a long-term vision to make the stadium one of the top collegiate baseball venues in the region.
By expanding both capacity and fan engagement opportunities, Indiana State Athletics is positioning Bob Warn Field as not just a home for baseball but also a hub for community connection. With the addition of the Blackwell Bullpen, Sycamore fans will have even more ways to come together to celebrate the team’s success while honoring a family whose generosity has left a lasting mark on the university.
Originally reported by Seth Montgomery in Go Sycamores.
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