Northwestern Plans New Softball Stadium At Ryan Field Athletic Complex

EVANSTON, IL — As the demolition of its football field to make way for a new $800 million football stadium and concert venue continues, Northwestern University officials announced plans to replace the softball field at the Ryan Field campus.

The new stadium will be named the Kip and Sara Kirkpatrick Stadium in return for a $5 million donation from the couple.

Kip is the co-founder and CEO of a private equity firm. Sara, his wife, is a former Chicago Public Schools teacher and member of the New Trier Parents' Association, officials announced.

“We look forward to seeing these outstanding women showcase their talent in a stadium that reflects their skill, hard work and dedication,” Sara Kirkpatrick said. “This project is an investment for today and for future generations of Wildcats softball superstars.”

According to a fundraising appeal from the university, the project has so far raised $15 million of a $20 million goal.

“These student-athletes deserve an upgraded home that allows the women’s softball program to stand out among Big Ten collegiate programs,” Kip Kirkpatrick said in a release. “Sara and I invite fellow Wildcats supporters to join us in helping to realize this vision.”

Facilities to be updated as part of the project include new dugouts, a new clubhouse, new seating, new bathrooms, a new entrance, better disabled access and an expanded press box.

Drysdale Field, named after former softball coach Sharon Drysdale, the first to lead Northwestern to a national championship, will remain the name of the playing field within the stadium.

Current Coach Kate Drohan took over leadership of the program from Drysdale in 2002, amassing more than 750 wins during that time, more than any other coach. With her twin sister as associate head coach, Drohan led the time to three trips to the Women's College World Series, most recently in 2022.

Drohan thanked the Kilpatricks for their belief in the program.

“The transformation of our stadium will have a tremendous impact, creating an environment for our student-athletes and fans that will complement the championship play of our program,” Drohan said in a statement.

"As a former student-athlete at Northwestern, Kip understands the amazing life lessons learned on our campus, especially through sports," she said. "This gift is a commitment to the standard of excellence here at Northwestern, ensuring that our student-athletes can train and compete in a state-of-the-art facility."

Construction is expected to begin next year and be complete by the spring of 2026. The softball team will continue to play their home games there during construction, university officials said.

Kirkpatrick said it was an honor to be able to give back to Northwestern.

“We have truly enjoyed watching Wildcats softball achieve such great success on a national stage," he said, "like their appearances in the Women’s College Softball World Series, and reaching historic milestones under the direction of Coach Drohan and her team.”