East Texas Baptist University’s Jason Bell Park at Taylor Field has been named the 2026 STADIONIC/NFCA Division III Field of the Year, recognizing the facility’s quality and the people who maintain and support it. The honor is ETBU’s second, following its 2018 award, and underscores the park’s role as a major host site for Division III softball.

By the Numbers
  • 2 Field of the Year awards: 2018 and 2026.
  • ETBU has hosted 2 NCAA Division III national championships, 8 regional tournaments and 3 super regionals.
  • The program won national titles in 2010 and 2024; the 2024 team became the first modern-day program to win a Division III championship on its home field.
  • Head coach Janae Shirley is entering her 20th season and has led the team to 16 NCAA tournaments.
State of Play
  • ETBU is scheduled to host its third NCAA Division III National Championship Tournament in 2028, after hosting in 2023 and 2024.
  • The award will be presented at the NFCA National Convention Annual Awards Brunch on Dec. 12.
Bottom Line

The award recognizes more than a well-equipped field: it reflects sustained investment in a facility that has become central to ETBU’s championship program and its place in Division III softball.