Build the Rock

As much as I may love Red Stanley Stadium, let's be honest: it struggles to host all of the events that Westfield requires of it. Even if you consider just the football games, we play every level of football on the the field. The ground crew does a wonderful job, but they are fighting a losing battle. Give that poor thing some rain and a whole bunch of cleats, day-in-day-out, and come Sectional time it's always a mud bowl.

Over the last decade, Westfield has rocketed into the ranks of 5A Indiana football. I know some Texans that may disagree, but Indiana High School football is serious stuff. This state holds some wonderful events, and Friday nights in the fall are exciting times to be a Hoosier, for sure. In such an environment, Westfield desperately needs an updated stadium. I mean, we're the only team in the conference that has to take a bus to home games. And boy, what our magnificent staff could do with some newer facilities! I promise you, you'll get every penny's worth.

Which brings me to the point of this post. There's an exciting fundraiser going on for the Westfield faithful. Stadium plans have been drafted. You can get all the nitty-gritty (complete with some wonderful graphics and a video) on the school website here. I'll wait for a moment while you click over...

Now, wipe off the drool. I know. I was excited too.

We're calling it the "Build the Rock" campaign, and we're asking local businesses, business owners, and individuals to consider contributions. Make no mistake, a vibrant, growing community like Westfield needs this stadium. Not just for football games or even only for sporting events. Such a stadium can cater to a whole host of Shamrock needs.

Big businesses (or some seriously wealthy individuals) can chase after things like naming rights for the various structures. For the rest of us, they are offering bricks for individuals, groups, or families. For more information, see the school website (linked above) or contact Athletic Director Bill Davis (Office: 317-867-6814).

On a personal note, I'd like to have a press box I could be proud of. I've been up on top of our current rickety installation on Friday nights for the last 6 years. I promise, you feel like you're taking your life into your hands every time!

Like I said, don't get me wrong: I love the tradition and history of our current stadium. It is a great place to play! But the realist in me knows a program like Westfield requires room to grow. We have a great opportunity on our doorstep, Rocks! Let's get it funded!