When the baseball field at Tommie Barfield Elementary School began showing its age, Marco Island residents knew it was time for an upgrade. Once home to Marco Island Academy’s baseball team, the field remained in use but was in need of big improvements. Rather than playing the waiting game, a group of people decided to take this matter into their own hands, making a move to upgrade our local baseball.

According to a Marco News report, the group led by Joey and Doreen Oliverio along with several other families created a nonprofit called Marco Island Youth Baseball Inc. The 10-year lease with Collier County Public Schools also has the option to extend another 10 years. This agreement was signed in April 2025 after City Manager Mike McNees and City Councilman Rene Champagne agreed on this change that needs to be done.

Rebuilding the baseball field is going to be a long long road. This group has already raised over $500,000 with the long-term goal of reaching $1.5M for full reconstruction. These effects include forming a board of directors, making a website, and organizing fundraising events. Joey Oliverio expressed his hopes of passing 1 million in community support. For the Marco Island Academy high school baseball team, this represents a game-changing opportunity for them. A new, reliable field means student athletes will no longer need to rely on an old Elementary school baseball field. A new field will bring more school spirit to MIA, as well as a more spacious environment to display their skills in front of family and friends.

The reconstruction of the Tommie Barfield field reflects the commitment of Marco Islanders. Instead of waiting for the field to get older where it is no longer playable, Marco residents found resources and determination to invest in it. As the renovation continues, the project is already being recognized as a symbol of what locals can achieve. It shows how a single community effort can bring together, all united by the love of the game.