After years of anticipation, Mercy University is moving forward with the construction of a new Daktronic scoreboard for six of its programs.
The installation of the new scoreboard, which promises modern technology, larger displays, and detailed stats, is a major upgrade for the programs’ facilities.
“It was a need of ours,” said Bill Sullivan, the Deputy Athletic Director. “It was something that complements the venue We made do with the portable but it was time for a permanent solution.”
The new scoreboard will service six programs: field hockey and baseball, along with both men and women’s soccer and lacrosse.
“The capabilities with new technology are endless. It can be customized to the sport that is playing. Everyone in athletics and their families are looking forward to it.”
Some of these new customizations are a pitch clock in baseball and a shot clock for lacrosse.
“It’s the industry standard. It adds value to the players’ experience. And the product we’re getting is well worth the wait.”
Mavericks Field saw a complete overhaul in 2012 as the old field was demolished and the new field launched. Mercy has been renting a scoreboard for 10 years. It’s portable and on a trailer. Mercy University decided that the success of the scoreboard in the gymnasium, which has graphics, player photos and hype videos for the basketball and volleyball programs would be a great idea as well, said Sullivan.
The new scoreboard is a perfect addition but there are also more capabilities to add.
“We are using multiple cameras for streaming capabilities. We are looking to enhance our audio as well,” said Sullivan. “Our conference is negotiating with different streaming services, which would require us to upgrade our video and broadcasting capabilities.’
He says that a goal is to have speakers around the field for the surround sound. Sullivan adds that Mike McGinnis is the best broadcaster in the conference and these new enhancements will not only make his presentation better but also the fan experience. But it can also be seen campuswide and be used to post university messages and news for all to see.
Daktronics, Inc. is one of the leading electric scoreboard manufacturers and its products can be seen in fields and stadiums around the country. Its website states that the scoreboard is designed to withstand impact for hot and cold temperatures, plus impact from balls. ColorSmart technology allows changing colors for various sports and stats.
While the long-awaited project is a step forward for the baseball program, it has also created unexpected challenges for the baseball team’s bullpen. The construction crews have dismantled portions of the bullpen on multiple occasions to allow for the installation of electrical wiring and foundation work. As a result, the pitching staff has been forced to relocate their workouts, practicing on makeshift mounds or even shifting their sessions indoors. This disruption has added stress to the team’s offseason routine, which is critical as they prepare for the upcoming season.
When asked about this dilemma, pitcher Matthew Manzoeillo said, ”It’s frustrating. We’re excited about the new scoreboard, but having the bullpen torn up constantly is making it hard for us to stay in rhythm.”
The coaching staff has been doing their best to accommodate the situation, but they acknowledge that it has been difficult to maintain the flow of normal training.
“We understand the importance of the new scoreboard, and we’re happy the university is investing in our program,” said Mercy’s Pitching Coach Marc Palmieri. “It was a challenge with the bullpen being unusable for stretches at a time. We’re doing everything we can to keep the guys focused and get them the work they need.”
“The home bullpen is intact. Discussion of where the visitors’ bullpen is going will be in December,” added Sullivan.
Despite the hurdle, the athletes remain optimistic that the scoreboard will be ready in time for the season opener, and they are looking forward to showcasing the new addition to the stadium. The updated scoreboard will bring advanced features like instant replay, in-depth stats, and improved visibility for fans. Mercy University hopes it will enhance the game-day experience and boost support for the programs.
Alfred Hoti, catcher for the Mavs said, “I’m really looking forward to it. It’s been talked about for years and finally becoming a reality. It’ll look much more professional and make everything smoother for us, the gameplay, and the fans.”
