McLean County Times

Illinois State University Athletics has announced that the press box at Duffy Bass Field will be named the Rich Olson Press Box. This decision recognizes the support from former Illinois State baseball player and Percy Family Hall of Famer Rich Olson and his family. The project received approval at the July 25, 2025, meeting of the Illinois State Board of Trustees.

"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, team captain, and all-conference second baseman for the Redbirds between 1972 and 1974 under head coach Duffy Bass. In 1972, he led his team with a .380 batting average as well as leading in hits and triples. He topped home runs in 1973 and RBIs in his final season. Olson still ranks fifth in school history for most triples in a season. In 1981, he was inducted into the ISU Athletics Percy Family Hall of Fame.

"In the ever-changing landscape of college athletics, we are extremely thankful for the generosity shown by Rich and his family," said ISU Director of Athletics Dr. Jeri Beggs. "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."

Support from Olson's family allowed several upgrades to be made at Duffy Bass Field, including enhancements within The Paul DeJong Training Facility such as installation of a new Trackman system that provides instant feedback to players. The coaching staff now has access to a recruiting lounge inside the stadium’s press box designed to host recruits and their families during campus visits.

"It's always humbling when you have alumni that want to give back to their program," said ISU baseball head coach Steve Holm. "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 in May 2009 after its namesake coach, offering seating for over 1,000 spectators along with modern amenities including concessions, restrooms, dugouts, and an advanced press box facility. The field underwent significant renovations beginning with a $3.2 million upgrade in 2008; further improvements included installation of an LED scoreboard in 2010, turf replacement in subsequent years (most recently in 2022), and completion of The Paul DeJong Baseball Training Facility in 2023 down the right field line.

Renovations related to signage for naming rights are expected before the start of the 2026 baseball season.

GoRedbirds.com remains available as a source for tickets, scholarship fund gifts, multimedia content, merchandise information, photos, and more regarding Illinois State Redbirds programs.