By Clayton Sayfie
The Blue & White
Grand Rapids Catholic Central HS
1st Place
Division 4, News Writing
News Story
In the 104 years of CC football, the Cougars have never had a home stadium of their own.
For years they played home games at Houseman Field, owned by the city of GR, and in recent years they have rented fields at Forest Hills Eastern and Northern.
A few years ago, the school got approval from Grand Rapids Township to add a stadium at the CAT athletic facility. Those plans were put on hold, though, because, as stated by Athletic Director Trevor Hinshaw, “the timing wasn’t right.”
The project now has been revived. On Sept. 23, the township granted CC a two-year extension on their previously approved project. This means they need to break ground on the project within that two years, something Hinshaw feels confident will happen.
“Everyone involved in the project is on board and would like to see it happen,” Hinshaw said. Getting the extension “is the first step in a number of steps that will have to occur, though.”
Members of the football program are excited for the stadium.
“I would get to know the turf and my surroundings on the field,” freshman Nathan Stickler said. “I would have a true ‘home field advantage’”
According to Hinshaw, additional benefits include more opportunities for student athletes to utilize the tutoring program at the CAT and the facility gaining new significance.
“It has the potential to be a great gathering place and rallying place in the community,” Hinshaw said.
Head Football Coach and CAT Facilities Director Todd Kolster agrees the stadium will greatly benefit the CC community.
“Having the stadium will bring a ton of excitement from our community, student body and alums for all sports,” Kolster said. “It will have a huge impact on all of our sports whether it is for games or practice and preparation.”
In addition, revenues will increase due to concession stand profits (now lost to schools hosting CC’s home games) and the fact that CC will no longer have to pay the $1,000 field rental fee per game.
Other students/athletic teams will benefit from the construction project, as well, since it is not just a football stadium.
It will be “a stadium with artificial turf surface that will serve a long list,” Hinshaw said, including football, band, lacrosse, rugby, soccer, and track.