NORMAL, Ill. – Illinois State Athletics announced on Wednesday that the press box at Duffy Bass Field will officially be named the Rich Olson Press Box in recognition of support from former Illinois State baseball standout and Percy Family Hall of Famer Rich Olson and his family. The project was approved at the July 25, 2025, Illinois State Board of Trustees meeting.
"Over the years since my playing days at Illinois State, it has become apparent the impact this University and Athletics Department has played in my life and my family's," Olson said. "This gift reflects my thanks to Illinois State University, a place where my dreams began!"
Olson was a three-year letterwinner, a team captain and all-conference performer as a second baseman for the Redbirds from 1972-74 for head coach Duffy Bass. As a sophomore in 1972, he paced the team with a .380 batting average and led the Redbirds in hits (38) and triples (6). The following season, he led the program in home runs with four and in his final season in 1974, he led the team with 19 RBIs. He still ranks fifth in school history for most triples in a season and in 1981, Olson was named a member of the ISU Athletics Percy Family Hall of Fame Class, forever cementing his legacy at Illinois State.
"In the ever-changing landscape of college athletics, we are extremely thankful for the generosity shown by Rich and his family," ISU Director of Athletics Dr. Jeri Beggs said. "It's special when a former student-athlete gives back to the University and the athletics program that once gave them an opportunity and having his name on the press box at Duffy Bass Field will reflect that commitment. Rich knows first-hand from his time at ISU the impact this place can make on a student-athlete and how it can set them up for future success. We can't thank Rich for his generosity and passion for Redbird Athletics."
The ISU Baseball program was able to make a handful of upgrades at the stadium thanks to the support of the Olson family. Within the Paul DeJong Training Facility, a new Trackman system helps provide feedback to hitters and pitchers instantly. The coaching staff has a new 'recruiting lounge' in the press box of the stadium that hosts recruits and their families while on campus. A handful of other improvements are on the horizon thanks to Olson and his family for their generous contribution.Â
"It's always humbling when you have alumni that want to give back to their program," ISU baseball head coach Steve Holm said. "Being the Head Coach at Illinois State, I continue to be amazed at how generous our alumni can be. Rich and his wife Sue have made an impact on our program that will allow us to provide an even better experience for our players. For that, we are forever grateful."
Duffy Bass Field was dedicated on May 9, 2009, in honor of the legendary ISU baseball coach. It features a gated complex with seating for over 1,000 spectators, concessions, restrooms, team dugouts and a state-of-the-art press box, making it one of college baseball's premier Midwest venues. In 2008, the facility underwent a $3.2 million renovation, and in 2010, a new energy efficient LED scoreboard was installed beyond the right field wall. A turf infield was added in 2013 and replaced in 2022 and in 2023, The Paul DeJong Baseball Training Facility was built and completed down the right field line. Renovations and signage on the Rich Olson Press Box will be made prior to the 2026 baseball season.
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