From staff reports

STATE COLLEGE — The State College Spikes say they will defend themselves against a lawsuit filed by Penn State University, calling the claims “baseless” and part of an effort to push the team out of Medlar Field at Lubrano Park.

In a statement released following the March 3 filing, the Spikes organization said Penn State has been engaged since August in what it described as a “calculated effort” to force the team out of business after earlier attempts failed.

“There is zero merit to Penn State’s lawsuit or its allegations,” the team said in the statement.

The Spikes contend the ballpark was built largely because of the team’s presence in the community and note that both Commonwealth taxpayers and the organization contributed to its development. The team also pointed to a $20 million state grant awarded in 2021 and 2022 for improvements and repairs to the facility, which the Spikes said was intended to support the team’s long-term presence in Happy Valley.

According to the team, Penn State’s actions run counter to the history of the stadium, the interests of the local community and the financial contributions made to support the facility.

The Spikes said they plan to contest the lawsuit while continuing preparations for their upcoming season.

“The Spikes will defend themselves, not only for their own sake, but also for the sake of everyone who has loved and supported the Spikes for two decades,” the organization said.

The team also said it looks forward to hosting its 20th anniversary season this summer at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park.

Penn State had not issued a response to the team’s statement as of press time.