Our Client
At Pro AV Systems, we love projects that bring communities together, and few places do that better than a college athletic field. When Bates College reached out about upgrading the audio system at their historic Garcelon Athletic Field, we knew this wasn’t just about gear. It was about creating an experience for athletes, fans, and the broader Bates community.
Project Overview
Garcelon Field is a centerpiece of campus life, hosting football games, lacrosse matches, and other major events. But the existing audio system was outdated and struggled to deliver consistent coverage. Announcements were often hard to hear, especially in the bleachers, and the sound lacked the energy that fuels a great game day atmosphere.
The college wanted:
- Crystal-clear announcements from the announcer’s box.
- Even sound coverage across the bleachers and the field.
- Easy control for staff who may not be audio experts.
- Reliable performance for both sports and special events.
That’s where our team came in.
Our Solution
Working closely with Bates College’s facilities team, Pro AV Systems designed and installed a new audio solution tailored specifically for Garcelon Field.
Here’s what we delivered:
- Gooseneck microphones in the announcer’s box, giving announcers comfortable, professional-quality tools for live calls.
- Vocal microphones for national anthems, halftime performances, and other on-field presentations.
- Full-range loudspeakers mounted on the press box, engineered to push clear, powerful sound evenly across the bleacher seating.
- New amplifiers to provide the headroom and reliability needed for both speech and music playback.
- Crestron control system, making it simple for staff to adjust volume levels and switch between sources with just a few button presses.
Results
The difference was immediate. From the very first kickoff after the upgrade, fans noticed clearer announcements, balanced sound throughout the bleachers, and a more engaging atmosphere. Staff in the announcer’s box appreciated how easy it was to control the system, no audio engineering degree required.
For Bates College, the new system didn’t just solve a technical problem; it enhanced the entire game day experience. Students, alumni, and local fans can now hear every call, every announcement, and every note of the fight song the way it was meant to be heard.
At Pro AV Systems, we believe AV technology should feel seamless. When it’s done right, you don’t think about the equipment, you just enjoy the moment. The Garcelon Field project is a perfect example of how the right mix of microphones, speakers, amplifiers, and controls can transform an athletic venue into a space that truly connects people.
Looking to upgrade the audio at your athletic facility or stadium? Contact Pro AV Systems to learn how we can help deliver a clear, powerful, and easy-to-use solution.
