Arctic Field Progress Update: Dugouts, Outfield Fence, and Inaugural Game Announcement

The snow has finally melted. The sun has started to shine. And the work continues to have Arctic Field ready for Opening Day 2023!

Since the end of March, Arctic Field has seen lots of construction. The dugouts are now closed in, ensuring players and coaches are protected from the elements. Dugout benches, field-level fencing, and field-level benches should be installed over the next few weeks to allow for ample seating inside the dugouts. Electrical should be completed over the next few weeks as well, allowing for in-dugout electrical equipment to be operated and for further expansion for game-day entertainment.

The outfield grass received near-perfect weather in the fall and the infield sod continues to root. Additional landscaping is slated to take place over the next few weeks to allow for more true bounces in the infield and a more level surface for running in the outfield. Given current conditions and the speed at which the project has taken place between the Fall of 2022 and Spring of 2023, we expect some landscaping fixes to be required throughout the 2023 season.

Finally, the most visually impactful change at Arctic Field this spring has been the installation of the padded fence. The royal blue padding has been affixed to the existing chain link fencing and provides a safer environment for outfielders tracking down fly balls. Arctic Field’s new dimensions — 315’ to the right and left field corners and 380’ to straightaway center field — should lead to more exciting plays at the fence. With the added traffic at the fence, the new padding should ensure players have a safer field environment.

As work over the coming weeks ramps up, the group is excited to announce the date for the first game to be played on Arctic Field. May 26th, 2023, the Winkler Whips will host the Pilot Mound Pilots in the inaugural game at Arctic Field. The Winkler Whips have a few exciting events planned for the inaugural game, including a barbecue and a pre-game ceremonial first pitch. 

The group continues to thank the community for the incredible support over the last 24 months. Together, with the following major sponsors and donors, we’re excited for the first pitch to be thrown May 26th:

• Arctic Spas Manitoba

• The City of Winkler

• Pinnaco

• Manitoba Pork

• Sunvalley Tire

• Little Morden Service

• Rosenort Credit Union

• Pembina Valley Physiotherapy

• Inground Construction

• Haskett Growers

• Mid City Redimix

• Parkside Home Building Center

• Thunderstruck Sales & Marketing

• Access Credit Union

• Sunvalley Cabinets and Construction

• D.A. Loewen Electric

Thank you everyone!