The Delavan Township Park District has completed a key upgrade at Gardner Field, enhancing its capacity to host youth baseball games and tournaments. A new 8-inch fiberglass pitcher's mound—tournament-qualified and built to last—has replaced the aging, deteriorating mound that previously served the field.

This improvement marks a significant step forward for local baseball programs. The mound meets specifications for 10U through 14U travel teams, as well as Delavan Junior High School’s baseball squad, offering a safer and more consistent playing surface for young athletes. Its fiberglass construction ensures durability and performance, aligning Gardner Field with regional standards for competitive play.

The upgrade reflects the Park District’s ongoing commitment to maintaining high-quality recreational facilities for Delavan’s youth and families. Gardner Field continues to be a hub for community sports, and the new mound positions it to host more formal tournaments and training sessions in the seasons ahead.

Wiffle Ball Under the Lights: A New Fall Tradition Begins

In other Park District news, Gardner Field will soon play host to a different kind of competition. As part of the Delavan Fall Festival, the Park District is launching its first annual Wiffle Ball Tournament. The event promises a lively evening of friendly rivalry, with games on Friday, August 29, at 6 p.m. and continuing under the lights until a champion is crowned.

Teams of 4 to 6 players are invited to register for the tournament, which offers cash prizes for both first and second-place finishers. Interested participants should contact Nicole Green at (309) 241-2075 to secure a spot.

Importantly, the Wiffle Ball tournament has been scheduled to avoid overlap with other Fall Festival events, ensuring that festivalgoers can enjoy the full slate of activities without conflict. With the new mound in place and the lights ready to shine, Gardner Field is set to be a centerpiece of Delavan’s autumn celebrations.