The Duck Pond, home of the Madison Mallards, is going through major renovations this spring as the Mallards prepare for the opening of the 2005 season, Wednesday, June 1st at 7:05 p.m. against the Mankato MoonDogs.

?Last year the fans really appreciated all the improvements that occurred throughout the Duck Pond, and we want to give them more,? general manager Vern Shenman said. ?Our fans have been great and I am eager for them to see the additions to this season.?

Improvements are being made throughout the Duck Pond, but one of the most notable additions are the various extensions to the fan-favorite Duck Blind in right field. The new U.S. Cellular Mini-Duck Blind will overlook the right field line and provides seating for an additional 50 people, ensuring that more people will experience what the Duck Blind has to offer. The LifeStyle Staffing Bullpen is another addition to the Duck Blind, and gives fans an up close and personal experience directly behind the visiting team?s bullpen.

Construction will also be completed on the new Physicians Plus Playground in the Meriter Fan Zone, which is located down the left field line near the main entrance of the park. The playground gives children another area to enjoy the Duck Pond and is equipped with slides, tunnels and much more.

The Mallards re-wrote the Northwoods League attendance record books last season, averaging 5,447 people per game and 179,951 total people. The additions around the ballpark will allow more fans to experience all that the Duck Pond has to offer.

For more information about renovations please contact Cary Dohman at 708-785-5194 or via email at cary@mallardsbaseball.com. For ticket information for the upcoming season please contact the Mallards at 246-4277 or on the Web at www.mallardsbaseball.com.