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PrefontainePark

Morehead State Announces Naming of Prefontaine Park in Recognition of Transformational Support for Athletics

5/7/2026 12:30:00 PM

MOREHEAD, Ky. -- Morehead State Athletics has announced the naming of Prefontaine Park within the Athletic Complex. The complex, encompasses John "Sonny" Allen Field and the University Softball Field, is named in honor of Andy Prefontaine (Class of 1971) and his extraordinary commitment to Eagle Athletics.

The naming also honors the Prefontaine family's longstanding philanthropic leadership and transformational support of MSU Athletics. Through the creation of the Prefontaine Athletic Fund, the family has contributed more than $1 million to support Eagle Athletics. 

"The Prefontaine family's generosity has strengthened our facilities and our programs and enhanced the experience for student athletes, coaches, and fans alike," said Kelly Wells (Class of 1995), director of MSU Athletics. 

One of the most visible expressions of that vision is the Big Blue Wall, a signature feature of Sonny Allen Field that was brought to life through Prefontaine's vision and support. 

Sonny Allen Field is nationally recognized for its distinctive, asymmetrical design, particularly its unusually short right field, measuring approximately 300 feet from home plate. To ensure competitive balance, the right-field fence was intentionally constructed at an increased height, introducing a more strategic challenge for both hitters and defenders. Rising one foot taller than Fenway Park's iconic Green Monster, the Big Blue Wall stands as a bold symbol of Eagle Baseball.  

"Nonpareil is derived from uniqueness - hence, The Big Blue Wall," said Prefontaine.    

Like its famous counterpart in Boston, the Big Blue Wall shapes the way the game is played while reinforcing Sonny Allen Field's reputation as one of the most unique environments in collegiate baseball.  

"Andy's support has left a lasting imprint on our baseball and softball programs," said Wells. "Projects like this stand as a reminder of what's possible when generosity and vision come together, allowing for continued improvements to MSU Athletics as a whole." 

Prefontaine's enduring commitment to advancing Eagle Athletics will be honored through this philanthropic naming for years to come. As the Eagles take the field for the final home series of the 2026 season this weekend, Prefontaine Park and the Big Blue Wall stand as symbols of progress, pride and the transformative impact of private support on Morehead State University Athletics. 

For more information about MSU Athletics, visit www.msueagles.com

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