THE DUCK POND – Just a few years ago, Warner Park was not highly regarded around minor league baseball…and that is putting it mildly.

But back in 2001 the Ducks flew into town, and with it a sort of rennaissance for baseball in the Capital City. Tens of thousands of dollars have been spent to improve the 21 year old facility, and nearly $1 million more is slated to be put into the Duck Pond for 2004. The new improvements will include a new concession stand, new light posts that will no longer obstruct views, and improved seating.

And, of course, Madison Mallards management always has a few ideas in the works.

“We’re still learning and still getting better,” explains Mallards General Manager Vern Stenman, “and we have a lot more in store for the fans in the future.”

Mallards Owner Steve Schmitt agrees. “We’re not perfect, but no baseball park is. That’s what makes baseball so much fun.”

Fun is what the Mallards are having so far in 2003. The team is trying to wrap up the first half tonight at home against the Wausau Woodchucks, and attendance is far surpassing the team goals. The average attandance is better than 3,600 fans per game with more that 5,600 having attended Opening Night.

“The fan support has been amazing,” opines Rich Reynolds, the Assistant General Manager, “and we feel that the show that we put on for the fans will only get better. It also helps to have a great manager like Darrell Handelsman, and sport the best record in the league.”

To check out the review of The Duck Pond and the Madison Mallards, please visit http://www.ballparkwatch.com/visits/warner.htm.