Waterford Residents Rally to Revive Beloved Freehan Field Baseball Diamond

Waterford Township is witnessing a heartfelt community effort to restore the cherished Freehan Field, a baseball diamond steeped in local history.

 

Katie and Andy Belliotti, recent transplants to the area, have taken the lead in this restoration project.

 

Upon discovering the field in their new backyard, Katie recalls, "I saw the baseball field, and I got goosebumps, like, 'Oh my gosh.' Like, just seeing the future. 'What could this be?'"

 

Named after Detroit Tigers legend Bill Freehan, the field's origins date back to 1972, with its inaugural game in 1975 featuring Freehan himself throwing the first pitch.

 

The Belliottis are committed to honoring this legacy.

 

Andy emphasizes the need for a new backstop to prevent foul balls from entering neighboring yards.

 

Their goal is to have the field ready for teams by next year.

 

To support the restoration, the couple has initiated a GoFundMe campaign and plans to establish the Freehan Field Foundation.

 

Katie notes, "We're just, really, we're right in the process of getting that started. So, if corporations want to donate to us, we'll put their logo up on signs around the field, and we just, we want to support our community while they support us."

 

Community involvement is crucial to this endeavor.

 

Residents are encouraged to participate in upcoming local events to foster community spirit and support the restoration.

 

For instance, the Trunk or Treat event at Bethel United Church of Christ on October 24 offers a chance for families to engage with neighbors.

 

Additionally, the Harvest Happening at Hess-Hathaway Park on October 5 provides a platform for community bonding.

 

By participating in these events, residents can strengthen community ties and contribute to the revival of Freehan Field.

 

With collective effort, Freehan Field can once again become a place where dreams come true.