ROCKINGHAM — Since becoming Richmond Senior High School’s head baseball coach during the summer of 2023, Eric Brown has helped replenish the program’s roots, which are grounded in a rich history.
Big on initiatives to grow the Raider baseball program, all while linking the current team and players with those of the past, Brown announced this week the next big project to strengthen that link.
The Legacy Brick Garden at Raider Field will not only brighten the aesthetics of the baseball complex, but also serve as a way to recognize the program’s past.
The brick garden, which will be constructed behind the Raiders’ dugout along the third base line, will measure 340 square feet and have the capacity to hold 510 4”x8” bricks.
Noting that the brick garden is “obviously a fundraiser,” Brown said another main purpose is to honor all those who have contributed to the program the past half century.
“I’ve seen these types of gardens at other schools I’ve been to before, and I’ve always liked the concept of them,” Brown explained. “Our best option was to make a brick garden behind the home dugout.
“I’ve used the word ‘tradition’ a lot since I got here and that’s important to me and this program,” he continued. “I felt that something needs to be done to honor the tradition and legacy of the baseball program.”
One of the biggest perks, Brown said, is that the legacy bricks are open to anyone — former players and coaches, current members of the program, family members and friends, community organizations or fans of the team.
Brown said he’s already begun reaching out to Raider baseball alumni and their families and the slots are starting to fill up. The money raised will be used for the baseball program’s field maintenance, general upkeep and equipment needs.
“It’s really a win-win for everybody,” Brown commented. “This is a chance for our community to show its pride for Richmond baseball.”
Two options for brick purchases are currently available. The first is a 4”x8” brick that allows three personalized lines with 20 characters per line for $150.
Those wanting a larger layout can opt for an 8”x8” brick that holds six lines at 20 characters per line for $300. Each brick will be engraved with “state-of-the-art laser technology.”
“The biggest thing is that each brick is permanent,” Brown said. “It will be a part of Raider Field until they move the field somewhere else. The cost is a one-time deal with no renewal fees.”
In addition to the Legacy Brick Garden, Brown hopes to spruce up the area with a short gate around it and provide a facelift with some landscaping.
The back of the dugout will also turn into a memorial for former Raiders who have since passed. Among them, Brown said, would be Allen Flood, Henry McDuffie, Jason Norton and Bobby Rainey.
Shipments of bricks will be sent out for every 100 bricks ordered, and Brown said he “would love to have as many bricks installed before the start of the season.”
Orders will be ongoing until all the slots are filled. All donations are tax-deductible.
To make a donation for the Legacy Brick Garden at Raider Field, click here.
