Carlsbad High’s football field is set up to undergo a major rebuilding project in the upcoming months. There are expected changes to occur, adding new and improved features to the field. Both excitement and questions come with this rebuilding process.
According to school officials, the renovations will focus on improving safety undergrading facilities and creating a better experience for both players and spectators. The current field, which has been in use for several years, has shown signs of wear and tear, including uneven turf and outdated equipment.
”The main objective is to get it to where it’s in the best playable condition,” sports director Mr. Bloomquist said. “That means we have to remove all the turf and replace it, and the same with the track and jump areas.”
Planned upgrades include improving the track and field, as well as adding a jumbotron and improving the turf. Directors also talked about adding better lighting for evening games and possible new scoreboards.
“We are hoping to improve the equipment and facilities on not only the field, but also the score board, and including a jumbotron,” Bloomquist said.
Students from different grades and sports have shared their thoughts on upcoming projects. Many athletes are especially excited about how the new field will impact their performance.
“I’m excited for the new upcoming rebuild of the football field because I think my performance on the soccer field will improve,” freshman Charlie Dake said.
Other students are focusing on the technical improvements that the new field will bring.
“I think the remodeling of the field will increase the technological structures of the grass fibers, making sure players get 100% traction they need to perform well especially during my lacrosse season,” Sophomore Thomas Mulligan said.
Safety is another major concern for student athletes. Numerous student athletes explain the importance of injury prevention during the season, especially since many players have experienced missing practice or games because of injuries.
“I think this will overall improve everyone’s performance and also lower the increase of my injuries, for example my knee during lacrosse,” freshman Kylea Keefe said.
However, the construction may temporarily affect school activities during the rebuilding. Teachers and staff explain the scheduling of the upcoming renovations.
”Our goal is to start rebuilding the day after graduation and have this process done by August 1,” Bloomquist said. ”The coaches of the fall sports will try to push off any home games as long as they can, because we want to be completely built before any games are scheduled.”
Practices and games may be moved to other locations, which could create scheduling challenges for teams. Despite these inconveniences, most say that the long term benefits outweigh the short-term disruptions. Coaches believe the improving field conditions could help prevent injuries and boost team performance.
“The main objective is to make the playing conditions as best as possible. Allowing the upcoming sports seasons to have the most successful performance, with the new and improved field,” Bloomquist said.
