Following the generous lead gift of $10 million last June, UO donor and alumnus Bob Sanders announced today that he will pledge an additional $6 million to see a softball stadium project bearing the name of his late wife, Jane Sanders, to completion.

“Mr. Sanders has made this dream a reality for our softball program,” said Mullens. “Under head coach Mike White, our softball program has grown into a national power, deserving of a new facility. Mr. Sanders’ generosity and passion for Oregon athletics will allow us to continue to provide an exceptional student experience and dramatically improve the softball fan experience. And most importantly, this great facility will honor Jane Sanders.”

Bob and Jane Sanders, 1949 and 1950 graduates of the university, respectively, enjoyed great success in the lumber industry, having held businesses in California, Oregon and Washington. The two met at the UO when Robert was a fullback on the football team and Jane was a cheerleader. Jane Sanders passed away in 2013.

The athletic department began fundraising following the project’s approval by the UO Board of Trustees in February.

In May, former softball head coach and UO administrator Becky Sisley announced a matching gift challenge for the stadium fund. Sisley will match all other donations to the project up to $200,000 until Oct. 1. To make a donation as part of the challenge, contact the Duck Athletic Fund.

The Ducks will tear down Howe Field at the end of the 2015 season and will construct the 1,500-seat Jane Sanders Stadium in its place, to be ready for the Ducks’ first home game in 2016.

The Ducks softball team again won the Pac-12 this year and recently won in the first round of the postseason regionals. The team hosts a super-regional series against North Carolina State beginning Friday.