SMC Athletics Receives Generous Gift from Marilyn J. Bohl

June 1, 2021

MORAGA, Calif. — Saint Mary's College Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Mike Matoso announced today a $1 million gift from Marilyn J. Bohl to support Gael Athletics, including $250,000 specifically towards the Br. Ronald Gallagher Stadium for baseball. 
 
In addition, the athletics department will create The Marilyn J. Bohl Athletic Excellence Fund to provide support for strategic initiatives presented by the Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics, with a preference for men's basketball and baseball.
  
"We cannot thank Marilyn enough for this transformational gift to Saint Mary's Athletics," Matoso said. "Completing the baseball stadium project has been a priority for several years.  Without donor support, it would not have been possible."
  
"This is an inspiring and uplifting gift by Marilyn.  The entire department is very thankful," head men's basketball coach Randy Bennett said. "It means a lot to our student-athletes and accelerates the continuing pursuit of excellence within our athletic programs." 
 
In recognition of this generous gift, Saint Mary's College will name the Marilyn J. Bohl Baseball Development Center. This facility was completed in the spring of 2020 and is key to the continued development of Gaels baseball student-athletes. The 5,000 sq. ft. indoor facility includes two full hitting tunnels and two half tunnels with retractable netting, a satellite training room, covered storage and space for the team to meet. Many donors have contributed to the project, and Bohl's gift was key to its completion.
 
"I've always felt welcome and had a positive impression of Saint Mary's College. I believe strongly in education. It's the gateway to opportunity," Bohl said. "Much of what student-athletes learn as part of a sports team carries over into the business world and all walks of life. It's a privilege for me to help Saint Mary's."
  
"Marilyn's career and perspective are an example for past, present and future Gaels. She is a uniquely impressive and caring person," head baseball coach Greg Moore said. "This gift will make Saint Mary's College the most beautiful place in the Bay Area to watch and play amateur baseball. Gaels everywhere have been waiting 40 years for this complex." 
 
The Br. Ronald Gallagher Stadium will include permanent stadium seating, a press box and an entrance into the complex. Br. Ronald Gallagher's name will don the complex, commemorating the former President of Saint Mary's College from 2006-13.
 

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Side view architectural rendering of Br. Ronald Gallagher Stadium

 

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Architectural rendering of Br. Ronald Gallagher Stadium

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