An important part of the new Field of Dreams professional ballpark in Dyersville will be named after “Voice of the Hawkeyes” Gary Dolphin.
The press box will be named in recognition of Dolphin’s decades of contributions to Iowa athletics, broadcasting, and communities across the state.
The naming opportunity is being led by longtime Iowa businessman and philanthropist Ron Kirchhoff, a member of the “Bring It Home” Campaign National Advisory Board. “Gary Dolphin has been one of the great voices and ambassadors for the State of Iowa for decades,” said Ron Kirchhoff. “He’s brought people together through sports, community, and storytelling, and this is a meaningful way to recognize everything he has given back to Iowa. The Field of Dreams represents the very best of our state, and honoring Gary there just feels right.”
The new Field of Dreams ballpark is a centerpiece of the “Bring It Home” campaign led by Dyersville Events, Inc., the nonprofit organization stewarding the entire 297-acre Field of Dreams site. The campaign includes construction of a professional ballpark, youth baseball and softball complex, education and community programming, and expanded visitor amenities designed to preserve and enhance the iconic site for future generations.
Mike Decker, Board Chair of Dyersville Events, said the recognition reflects the type of leadership and legacy the project hopes to celebrate. “Gary Dolphin has helped define some of Iowa’s most memorable moments and has spent a lifetime championing our communities, student-athletes, and traditions,” said Mike Decker. “As we build this new chapter at the Field of Dreams, it is fitting that Gary’s name and legacy become part of a place that means so much to people across Iowa and across the country.”
Many supporters have already committed gifts toward the Gary Dolphin Press Box effort,with about half of the $500,000 fundraising goal secured. Additional pledges will continue to be accepted through August 13th, when Major League Baseball returns to the Field of Dreams for a nationally televised game.
For more information or to contribute to the Gary Dolphin Press Box, visit https://bringithomeiowa.com/donors.
photo courtesy of Janelle Tucker/KMCH