**Buck Beltzer Stadium**
**Definition:**
Buck Beltzer Stadium was a collegiate baseball stadium located in Lincoln, Nebraska, serving as the home field for the University of Nebraska Cornhuskers baseball team from 1947 until 2001.
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## Buck Beltzer Stadium
Buck Beltzer Stadium was a prominent baseball venue situated on the campus of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. It served as the home stadium for the Nebraska Cornhuskers baseball team for over five decades, from its opening in 1947 until its closure in 2001. The stadium was named in honor of Buck Beltzer, a former Nebraska athlete and coach who contributed significantly to the university’s athletic programs. Over the years, Buck Beltzer Stadium witnessed numerous memorable moments in Nebraska baseball history and played a key role in the development of the program before being replaced by Hawks Field at Haymarket Park.
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### History
#### Origins and Construction
The stadium was originally constructed in 1947 to provide a dedicated facility for the University of Nebraska’s baseball program. Prior to its establishment, the team played at various locations around campus and in the city of Lincoln. The creation of Buck Beltzer Stadium marked a significant step in the university’s commitment to fostering competitive collegiate baseball.
The stadium was named after Buck Beltzer, a former Nebraska athlete who excelled in multiple sports and later served as a coach and administrator. Beltzer’s legacy at the university was honored through the naming of the stadium, reflecting his impact on Nebraska athletics.
#### Development and Renovations
Throughout its existence, Buck Beltzer Stadium underwent several renovations and upgrades to improve the playing surface, seating capacity, and amenities for players and fans. These improvements were aimed at maintaining the stadium’s status as a competitive venue within the collegiate baseball landscape.
Despite these enhancements, by the late 1990s, the stadium was considered outdated compared to newer facilities at other universities. This led to discussions about constructing a modern stadium to better accommodate the growing fan base and to provide state-of-the-art facilities for the Cornhuskers.
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### Features and Facilities
Buck Beltzer Stadium featured a natural grass playing surface and traditional stadium seating. The ballpark had a modest seating capacity, which was sufficient for the crowds during much of its operational period but became increasingly limited as the popularity of Nebraska baseball grew.
The stadium included basic amenities such as locker rooms, dugouts, and concession stands. Its location on the university campus made it accessible to students and local fans, fostering a strong community atmosphere during games.
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### Role in Nebraska Baseball
Buck Beltzer Stadium was the site of many significant moments in Nebraska baseball history. The Cornhuskers achieved numerous victories and hosted important conference and NCAA tournament games at the venue. The stadium was instrumental in the growth of the baseball program, helping to elevate Nebraska’s status in collegiate baseball.
The stadium also served as a training ground for many players who went on to professional careers. Its presence contributed to the recruitment and development of talent within the program.
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### Closure and Replacement
In 2001, Buck Beltzer Stadium was closed following the completion of Hawks Field at Haymarket Park, a new, modern baseball stadium located near downtown Lincoln. Hawks Field offered enhanced facilities, increased seating capacity, and improved amenities, reflecting the university’s commitment to advancing its baseball program.
The transition to Hawks Field marked the end of an era for Buck Beltzer Stadium. While the old stadium was eventually demolished, its legacy remains an important chapter in the history of Nebraska baseball.
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### Legacy
Buck Beltzer Stadium is remembered fondly by former players, coaches, and fans for its role in nurturing Nebraska baseball. It symbolizes the growth and evolution of the program from modest beginnings to national prominence. The stadium’s name continues to be recognized within the university’s athletic history, honoring Buck Beltzer’s contributions.
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## See Also
– Nebraska Cornhuskers baseball
– Hawks Field at Haymarket Park
– University of Nebraska–Lincoln athletics
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**Meta Description:**
Buck Beltzer Stadium was the home of the University of Nebraska Cornhuskers baseball team from 1947 to 2001, playing a key role in the development of Nebraska collegiate baseball before being replaced by Hawks Field.