Torch Light

 

This summer, while most of us were looking for shade and cool air, our district’s facilities and maintenance crew was out in the heat transforming the junior high baseball field into a top-tier playing space. Their hard work paid off just in time for the home season opener last week, when the Mustangs celebrated the new field with a 13–0 victory!

 

With the exception of one job, the shortening of the outfield fence, every major improvement was handled in-house by our talented facilities team. Here’s what they accomplished:

 

Shortened the fence for age-appropriate distance

Installed a new wireless scoreboard

Constructed a new infield and refreshed the mound area

Planted fresh grass where needed around the back of the infield

Poured new concrete walkways from dugout to dugout

Added new bleachers and awnings for shade and comfort

Constructed a new score booth, which also houses concessions and storage

Installed new pads on the backstop to enhance safety

 

“Our maintenance crew poured a ton of time and effort into getting it ready, and now it’s truly a jewel. In my 33 years as EJHS baseball coach, this is the sixth field we’ve played on, and is by far the best. From the warning track, scoreboard, bleachers, and awnings, to the new storage shed with concession windows that let you watch the game while selling, every detail was thoughtfully done. Having junior high dimensions built in makes it feel like a true home field. This is something EJHS can be proud of. We are so thankful to Andy Johnson, the board, Vince Rohr, and especially our maintenance team for prioritizing this field.” ~ Coach Rod Wiethop

 

“By taking on this project in-house, we not only saved time and money, we also showcased the incredible talent we have right here in our own district. The results are truly top-notch, and it’s a great reminder of the pride and skill our maintenance team brings to our schools every day.” ~ Supt. Andrew Johnson

 

Despite the brutally hot summer, the crew pushed through to ensure everything was ready for the first pitch of the season. The results speak for themselves. Thank you to our facilities and maintenance crew for going above and beyond to create a field our Mustangs can be proud to call home.