By Emily Dunford, Managing Editor
The turf and track on Blue and Gold Stadium at Newtown High School was replaced this summer. Besides the updates to the turf and track, a new Jumbo Tron video scoreboard was installed as well.
Renovations of the stadium began in early summer. The old turf was taken out in June and the new turf was placed in July. NHS has not gotten a turf replacement since it was installed 2010 and Athletic Director Matt Memoli expects this new turf to last just as long. The new additions to the turf include repainted field markings, with alternating shades of green every five yards, a new gold color (Vegas gold as opposed to the old Collegiate gold) in the end zones, and a thick blue border surrounding the entire field. In addition, the updated Nighthawk logo, seen on many new team uniforms, replaced the previous one that was located in the middle of the turf.
NHS Athletic Director expressed excitement at the facility updates.
“I would like to say one word. Pumped!!! I am so happy with what we have for the student-athletes in Newtown. We have so many great upgrades and can't wait for them to be utilized by the NHS Student-Athletes!” Memoli said, through email.
The new scoreboard will be utilized as a scoreboard, along with videos and pictures of players and teams. The scoreboard could also allow for a live feed of games with special up close views that Spector’s may not be able to see regularly. The money for the scoreboard was donated by local businesses, along with the NHS Blue & Gold Booster club. ABC Sign Incorporation installed the video scoreboard as well as a new scoreboard at Hawley Elementary School to be used for the Newtown Youth Football teams.
“I’m most excited to be in the student section watching our football team play on a field that matches our abilities. The field and Jumbo Tron will create a great atmosphere for Friday night games. As a field hockey player I am excited for our first game on the new turf and to step out on the new field,” NHS senior Morgan Melillo said.
A new track was installed after repeated damages throughout the years, giving the old beaten down track a fresh look. The bleachers will also be painted, replacing the concrete color that was sandblasted a few years ago. The repainting and the new track creates a fresh new look and environment to the stadium.
“I am super excited to see Blue and Gold with new turf, track, and video scoreboard. We have premier athletic programs and the facilities will now match,” NHS Head Football Coach Bob Pattison said.
The new additions to the stadium were officially unveiled on Friday, September 10 at the first home football game against Pomperaug.