Royce Hughes Field

Inaugural Season: 2013
First Win: February 9, 2013; 1-0 vs. Birmingham Southern
Softball All-Time Record: 160-114 (.584) through 2025
Dimensions:
    Left: 205'
    Center: 205'
    Right: 205'
Surface: Grass

Address: 1238 E College St., Pulaski, TN 38478

The University of Tennessee Southern’s East Campus is a cornerstone of Firehawk Athletics, housing Grissom Pitch, Bobby Walker Field, and Royce Hughes Field in addition to key training and recreation facilities. Located just east of the main campus in Pulaski, Tennessee, the East Campus spans 44 acres and serves as the home for UT Southern’s soccer, baseball, and softball programs.

The development of the East Campus commenced with a 44-acre land purchase in 1998, followed by a two-phase construction plan. Phase one, completed in 1999, laid much of the groundwork for the complex, including the creation of Grissom Pitch—now the home of Firehawk men’s and women’s soccer—and Baker Intramural Field. Phase two, finalized in 2013, marked a major expansion with the addition of Bobby Walker Field (baseball), Royce Hughes Field (softball), the Kermit Smith Running Trails, and the 14,000-square-foot Firehawk Indoor Practice Facility, which provides year-round training opportunities for multiple UT Southern teams.

Grissom Pitch features a natural grass surface and serves as the competitive home for UT Southern soccer. With upgraded lighting, team areas, and a press box, it supports a premier NAIA soccer experience.
Bobby Walker Field is the proud home of Firehawk Baseball. It includes a natural grass surface, bullpens, batting cages, fan seating, and a press box, honoring the legacy of long-time coach Bobby Walker.
Royce Hughes Field, named after legendary softball coach Royce Hughes, is the home of Firehawk Softball. The facility offers a close-up fan experience, full amenities, and a competitive playing surface for NAIA-level play.

Together, these facilities reflect UT Southern’s long-term investment in athletics and student-athlete development, offering a high-quality environment for training, competition, and community events.