ChillicoPaints at VA Memorial Stadium | Chillicothe

V.A. Memorial Stadium, home to the Chillicothe Paints baseball team, is a historic and beloved sports venue located on the campus of the Veterans Administration Hospital about three miles north of downtown Chillicothe, Ohio. This stadium is a key community hub, offering an engaging baseball experience while honoring its origins tied to veterans and public service.

Historical Background of V.A. Memorial Stadium

The stadium was originally constructed in 1954 and opened in 1955. Its creation was funded by the Blue Star Mothers of America, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting U.S. military service members and veterans. The initial purpose of the stadium was to provide a recreational softball field for patients of the Veterans Administration Hospital. This connection to veterans and the hospital campus imbues the site with a strong sense of community and respect for military service.

Over time, V.A. Memorial Stadium evolved from a simple recreational field into a dedicated baseball venue. In 1993, the stadium underwent significant renovations to become the home of the Chillicothe Paints, a collegiate summer baseball team. This team was among the founding members of the Frontier League, an independent professional baseball league. Since then, the stadium has been central to the local baseball scene.

The Chillicothe Paints

The Chillicothe Paints have been a major draw for baseball fans in southern Ohio since their establishment in 1993. Originally a professional independent team, they later transitioned to collegiate summer baseball and now compete in the Prospect League, which features college players looking to develop their skills during the summer months.

The Paints have a strong tradition of success, having won four league championships (2010, 2019, 2022, and 2023) and 13 division titles. The team enjoys enthusiastic local support, drawing families, baseball fans, and community members to the stadium throughout the summer season.

Stadium Features and Renovations

V.A. Memorial Stadium has undergone several renovations to enhance the fan experience and maintain the facility:

Field Surface: In 2006, the natural grass playing field was replaced with FieldTurf, a synthetic turf surface designed for durability and consistent playability in various weather conditions. This upgrade improved the quality of the playing surface and reduced maintenance requirements.

Left Field Party Deck: Also added during the 2006 renovation, the party deck offers a unique social space for fans to enjoy games in a more casual, festive atmosphere. It has become a popular gathering spot for groups and events during games.

Seating and Amenities: The stadium features a variety of seating options, including traditional bleacher seats, reserved seating, and areas for group events. Concessions, restrooms, and other facilities support a comfortable experience for spectators.

Accessibility: V.A. Memorial Stadium is designed to accommodate all visitors, with accessible seating and facilities to ensure an inclusive environment for fans with disabilities.

Recent and Planned Improvements

In June 2024, the Ohio House of Representatives approved a $500,000 funding allocation dedicated to upgrading V.A. Memorial Stadium. The planned improvements include:

Replacing the Turf Field: The existing FieldTurf, installed nearly two decades ago, will be replaced with a new, state-of-the-art playing surface to ensure safety and enhance gameplay quality for players.

Restoration of the Outfield Wall: The outfield wall will be repaired and restored to improve both aesthetics and player safety.

Seating Upgrades: Existing seating areas will be refurbished to improve comfort and functionality for spectators.

These improvements reflect the commitment of local and state governments, along with community stakeholders, to maintaining the stadium as a vibrant, safe, and enjoyable venue that supports both sports and community engagement.

Role in the Community and Events

Beyond hosting Chillicothe Paints baseball games, V.A. Memorial Stadium serves as a multi-purpose community venue. Its location on the Veterans Administration Hospital campus also means it holds symbolic significance, linking sports with service and healing.

The stadium regularly hosts special events, including:

Community Days and Festivals: Local festivals and celebrations often incorporate the stadium as a gathering space.

Youth and Amateur Baseball: Various youth leagues and amateur baseball events utilize the stadium facilities.

Private Events: The party deck and other areas are available for private rentals, including corporate outings, birthday parties, and social gatherings.

Chillicothe Paints’ Season and Fan Experience

The Chillicothe Paints’ baseball season typically runs from late May through early August, featuring about 56 games, with roughly half played at V.A. Memorial Stadium. The games are family-friendly and provide affordable entertainment with a strong community atmosphere.

Fans enjoy a range of promotions, theme nights, and special events throughout the season that enhance the game-day experience. The stadium atmosphere fosters local pride and supports the development of young collegiate athletes aspiring to professional careers.

Summary

V.A. Memorial Stadium is more than just a baseball field; it is a historic landmark and a vibrant center for community life in Chillicothe. Its roots in supporting veterans, combined with its role as home to the Chillicothe Paints, tie together history, sport, and community spirit. Recent investments ensure that the stadium will continue to be a treasured venue for sports and events, offering a welcoming and enjoyable environment for fans and players alike.