LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Eight programs were recognized as 2025 Netting Professionals/NFCA Fields of the Year, the Association announced on Friday afternoon. Bowden Field, home of Viking softball, was recognized as the Field of the Year for NCAA Division II. 

Head coach Gretta Mested said, "Bowden Field is an amazing facility.  Thoughtful planning and a sincere effort to make the student-athlete and fan experience one of a kind and special were at the forefront of every decision in the planning and design process of the field. It is those unique characteristics that make Bowden Field special and different than any other stadium. Bowden Field's game day atmosphere is electric, not only for our team but for anyone who plays here. Thank you to our chief architect, Andrew Eitreim for his creativity and vision and thank you to the late Al Bowden and his wife, Terri, for making our dream a reality."

Earning recognition in 2025 are McWhorter Stadium (NCAA DI – Clemson University), Bowden Field (NCAA DII – Augustana University), Inspiration Field at Carol Willis Park (NCAA DIII – Illinois Wesleyan University), Warrior Field at Warrior Park (NAIA – Indiana Institute of Technology), The Plex (NJCAA – Northeast Mississippi Community College), Falcons Softball Stadium (Cal JC – Folsom Lake College), Raines Field (NWAC – Clark College) and Warrior Softball Complex (Calvary Christian High School  {Fla.}).

This award, made possible by NFCA Official Sponsor Netting Professionals, recognizes top fields/stadiums in the nation for their flawless grounds maintenance and exceptional playing surfaces. These locations are selected by the NFCA Awards Committee for NCAA Divisions I, II, and III, NAIA, NJCAA, Cal JC, NWAC, and High School.

The winners were nominated by NFCA member coaches and selected by a panel of their peers on the NFCA Awards Committee. They will be recognized on Dec. 13 during the NFCA Convention's annual Awards Brunch.