A hush falls over the crowd. The roar of the game fades. We stand before Benedetti Diamond at Max Ulrich Field. This isn’t just a baseball field. It’s a living testament to dedication and legacy.
Originally Max Ulrich Field it opened in 1953. A San Francisco resident Max Ulrich left a generous $358000 in his will to the University of San Francisco. His gift made this field possible. The field was later renamed in 1980. It honored Dante Benedetti a legendary coach.
For twenty-nine years Benedetti led the San Francisco Dons baseball team. He amassed 373 wins a record that stood until 2012. He even took a $1 annual salary to keep the program alive. His unwavering commitment shaped the field’s identity.
Imagine the cheers the crack of the bat the thrill of victory. This field has witnessed countless games. It has held the hopes and dreams of athletes and fans. Mesh netting surrounds the field. It protects nearby homes from errant home runs.
In 2016 a $6 million renovation transformed the diamond. The field was rotated. The first base line now runs along Golden Gate Avenue. A new AstroTurf surface was installed. It uses Greenplay organic infill. This innovative material is eco-friendly and improves player safety.
Today Benedetti Diamond is a state-of-the-art facility. It has a wrap-around spectator deck. There are chairback seats and even high-top tables. This modern ballpark stands as a symbol of progress. It also pays tribute to the rich history of USF baseball.
As we leave Ulrich Field remember the stories etched into the very ground beneath our feet. Remember the dedication of Max Ulrich and Dante Benedetti. Their legacies live on in the cheers of the crowd and the swing of the bat.