The Chico Heat (summer collegiate; Great West League) have announced an agreement to play at Nettleton Stadium until 2020. This agreement extends the former two- year agreement the Heat had with the University Foundation from 2016 – 2017.
“The Heat and Chico State University have worked together to bring affordable family entertainment to our community during the summer season. Nettleton Stadium is the best baseball facility in Northern California & we wish to thank all parties involved for continuing this relationship.” – Pat Gillick, Owning Partner, Chico Heat Baseball.
The Heat have tremendous accolades in their brief history. Two championship appearances in as many years, one championship trophy, the 2016 GWL Coach of the Year in Fred Ludwig and 2016 Pitcher of the year Stuart Bradley. The Heat hold the Great West League single game attendance record with 4,415 people in attendance, and currently hold the single season attendance GWL record set in 2016 with a total of 54,653 fans through the gate. In 2016, Chico ranked 15th in the country in total attendance ranked by Ballpark Digest.
“I’m thinking that the community responds really well and comes out in droves to support this 2018 team. Let it be known, it’s our goal to break into the Top 10, in the country, in total attendance.” – Hunter Hampton GM, Chico Heat Baseball.
A portion of the lease revenue will go directly into stadium repairs, upgrades, and a portion goes directly to support Chico State Baseball. The Chico Heat are 46-21 at home and have earned the title of Best Sporting Event according to the 2017 Chico News and Review “Best of” edition.
“We at Chico State are delighted to continue our relationship with the Chico Heat,” said University President Gayle Hutchinson. “It is a mutually beneficial arrangement that brings wholesome entertainment to our community, while at the same time supporting Chico State baseball and assisting with maintenance and improvements at Nettleton Stadium. I look forward to another exciting season of Heat baseball!”