It’s almost like home. Brookhaven High School’s new baseball field house nearly has all the amenities of home, with the exception of a kitchen and bedrooms.

The 3,500 square foot facility includes a spacious dressing room, a comfortable lounge area with a large video television, a weight room, laundry room, storage space, coach’s office, athletic training area, shower stalls and restrooms.

Each dressing cubicle sports a personalized stool, with space for street clothes and storage. The large leather recliners and sofas were donated by a local furniture store. It’s a comfortable place to relax, before and after a game.

Ole Brook head baseball coach Randy Spring smiled with pride during the ribbon-cutting ceremony. For him and his players, the new field house is a dream come true. And, it was long overdue.

Dustin Walker, a 1987 BHS graduate and former baseball player recalled his days at Moyer Field when the old field house wasn’t available. “I believe I undressed and put my uniform on in my car.”

Brookhaven’s six seniors vividly remember the cramped, old facility, the rusting lockers, the leaking toilets and the windows that wouldn’t open. They’re happy they had the opportunity to enjoy the new field house for one season.

“I’m glad to have it,” said outfielder Genoa Sartin. “I’m happy they could build it for us.”

Senior pitcher Seth Porter agreed. “It feels good in here. We have somewhere to relax before the game.”

Players can watch a video replay of the game on the big screen or receive an in-depth analysis of their swing. Pitchers can review their throwing motion.

“This is far more room for us,” said Houston Case. “The old dressing room was cramped and it stunk.”

Catcher Zach Smith scanned the 50′ x 75′ area and voiced his approval before taking his turn on the weight machine. “I like the space. We can get a lot more done. We get to work out in here.”

Pitcher/first baseman Andrew Culver agreed. “I like it because we can work out in here.”

Peyton Clark knew about the proposal to build the field house but admitted he was doubtful about its completion before he graduated. “I never thought it was a possibility. I was very excited when I heard we were going to get a new field house.”

Coach Spring has set high standards for keeping the $400,000 field house in spic and span condition. Each class of players has a weekly routine to clean up after each practice, on a rotating basis.

“We are blessed to have this facility,” said Smith. “We are thankful for the school district providing funds for it.”

Clark said the large washer and drier units were appreciated. “The coaches wash our practice clothes for us. I used to wash mine at home.”

Spring has been coaching BHS baseball for 14 years. He coached the Panthers to a state championship in 2004.

“This field house is a monument to our former players, too,” said Spring. “We have had several of them play college baseball. We have former players who have become dentists, doctors, engineers and successful businessmen.

“I want all of them to come back and visit their new field house.”