LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Columbus State Softball has earned national recognition on Tuesday afternoon as the National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) announced the 2024 Netting Professional NFCA Fields of the Year which recognizes several programs across the country.

Cougar Field was honored as the NCAA Division II Field of the Year as released by the national association, listed among eight other programs from every level of collegiate softball as well as the high school ranks. This award recognizes the top fields/stadiums in the country for their flawless grounds maintenance and exceptional playing surfaces.

"It is great to receive this award again," Head Coach Brad Huskisson said. "This is a testament to all the folks that have a hand in making Cougar Field one of the best."

The Home of Lady Cougar Softball is regarded as one of the top softball facilities in the entire country and has previously earned national recognition by the NFCA. In 2010, Cougar Field earned the NFCA and Stabilizer Solutions Field Maintenance award as the top playing surface in all of Division II.

Cougar Field boasts a recently upgraded video scoreboard in right center, professional lighting, and spacious walk-in dugouts equipped with restroom facilities for both teams. Over the years, the facility has seen major upgrades including an underground drainage system in 2015, the "Cougar Cave" in 2017, and a new video scoreboard in 2020, with new stadium seating, press box, and backstop coming soon.

In 2017, a brand new covered hitting and pitching facility was added, providing the Lady Cougars a place to practice regardless of weather conditions. The "Cougar Cave" is a 6,000-square foot turf facility that features six multi-use cages with three pitching areas.

Cougar Field has a storied history, being the home practice site for 1996 Olympic Team in addition to hosting numerous high-level competitions and softball programs throughout the years.