Heather Bell
RADFORD – A rededication ceremony for Joe Hodge Field at Sisson Park was held Monday, bringing together city officials, family members and community members.
For decades, Radford’s Little League and other recreation league baseball and softball players have played on Joe Hodge Field. In recent years, the field began showing its age. Now, improvements including new dugouts, seating area, fencing and field work are giving the beloved field a much-needed facelift and improved functionality.
Joe Hodge was a longtime employee of the Radford Parks and Recreation department, where he served as the department’s athletic director and Parks and Fields supervisor. He helped with the construction of the field in the 1970s.
“Joe, along with summer park aides, the Public Works department, and many friends and volunteers helped build the field,” reads the announcement of the rededication ceremony. “Teams from all over the New River Valley enjoyed coming and playing games on Hodge Field. Many would give up their home games to play at the field.
“When Joe wasn’t working on fields, he found time to also coach many teams,” it continues. “Joe was loved and respected by all who knew him.”
Joe Hodge Field at Sisson Park is located at 1014 Pendleton St., Radford.
