How Clemson converted a football stadium into a Savannah Bananas baseball park
The Savannah Bananas, a collegiate summer league team founded in 2016, have redefined the traditional baseball experience. Under the ownership of Jesse and Emily Cole, the team introduced “Banana Ball,” a fast-paced, fan-centric version of baseball designed to entertain and engage audiences. Banana Ball features unique rules such as a two-hour time limit, no bunting, and the exciting twist that a fan catching a foul ball results in the batter being out. These innovations have propelled the Banan
In 2025, the Bananas embarked on their most ambitious tour yet, the Banana Ball World Tour, which included stops at 18 Major League Baseball stadiums and three football stadiums across 40 cities in 25 states. The tour aimed to showcase the excitement of Banana Ball to a broader audience and break their single-game attendance record of over 45,000, set in 2024 at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia.
Clemson University’s Memorial Stadium, with a seating capacity of 81,500, is renowned for its electric atmosphere during football games. The stadium has also hosted major events, including concerts by The Rolling Stones, U2, and Elton John. However, transforming a football stadium into a baseball field posed unique challenges.
To accommodate the dimensions of a baseball field, significant modifications were necessary. The Bananas planned to install netting at least 50 feet high to protect fans and players from errant balls, particularly in the shorter portions of the outfield. This netting would be taller than Fenway Park’s iconic Green Monster, adding a distinctive feature to the game.
Additionally, the logistics of converting the stadium included laying down a temporary infield, installing dugouts, and ensuring proper drainage and lighting. The collaboration between the Bananas and Clemson University was crucial in executing this transformation seamlessly.
On April 26, 2025, Memorial Stadium hosted its first-ever baseball game as the Savannah Bananas faced off against their rivals, the Party Animals. The event was a spectacle, blending the intensity of baseball with the entertainment value of Banana Ball. Fans were treated to choreographed dance routines, players on stilts, and the unique rule that a fan catching a foul ball results in the batter being out.
The atmosphere in Death Valley was electric, with fans from across the country converging to witness this historic event. The collaboration between the Bananas and Clemson University ensured that the game was not only a sporting event but also a celebration of community and innovation.
The successful conversion of Memorial Stadium into a baseball venue had far-reaching implications. It demonstrated the versatility of sports venues and the potential for cross-sport events to engage diverse audiences. The event also highlighted the importance of collaboration between sports organizations and educational institutions in creating unique experiences for fans.
For the Savannah Bananas, the game at Memorial Stadium was a significant milestone in their journey to revolutionize the sport of baseball. It showcased their commitment to innovation and their ability to adapt to different venues and audiences.
The transformation of Clemson’s Memorial Stadium into a baseball venue for the Savannah Bananas was a remarkable achievement that exemplified creativity, collaboration, and a shared passion for sports. It was a testament to the power of innovation in creating memorable experiences for fans and setting new standards in the world of sports entertainment.
As the Savannah Bananas continue their World Tour, the game at Memorial Stadium will remain a highlight, symbolizing the team’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of traditional sports and bringing joy to fans across the nationThe Savannah Bananas, a collegiate summer league team founded in 2016, have redefined the traditional baseball experience. Under the ownership
