For years, the baseball field next to Tommie Barfield Elementary School was more of a burden than a blessing for Marco Island Academy athletes. Uneven dirt, patchy grass, and poor drainage made the field nearly unplayable at times. One good storm could cancel a game, and basic maintenance tasks like dragging the field or patching holes often fell to the coaches, rather than the county.

The lack of proper facilities took a toll on the program. For several seasons, MIA players trained and competed under far-from-ideal conditions. In one particularly difficult year, the school couldn’t even field a full team, and players were forced to join neighboring schools like Lely High just to stay in the game. For many, wearing a different school’s jersey was a reminder of the challenges the MIA baseball program continued to face.

But change is finally on the horizon.

Thanks to the efforts of local residents Joey and Doreen Oliverio and the creation of Marco Island Youth Baseball Inc., a new chapter for baseball on the island has begun. The Field of Dreams Initiative, spearheaded by the nonprofit, has already raised over $515,000 toward its $1.5 million goal. Renovations are set to begin in June, with a grand reopening of the field scheduled for August.

The planned upgrades will completely transform the facility. Highlights include synthetic turf for better drainage, LED lights for night games, new dugouts, bullpens, batting cages, and shaded seating areas for fans. These improvements are expected to significantly enhance the experience for both players and spectators — and finally bring the field up to the standard the community deserves.

For current players, especially seniors, the project represents more than just a physical upgrade. It’s a sign that the community believes in the program and its future. After years of playing under difficult circumstances, this new field offers not only a sense of pride but also a proper home for MIA baseball.

Even more importantly, the renovations lay the groundwork for future generations. Incoming freshmen and younger athletes won’t have to face the same challenges. Instead, they’ll grow up competing on a top-tier field that reflects the passion Marco Island has always had for baseball.

The new facility isn’t just a field, it’s a statement. It shows that with the right support, MIA baseball can thrive again.