We aren't ones to wish the summer away but anticipation for fall sports and onward at Krantz should be at an all time high for athletes, students and spectators alike.
A sneak peek rendering of the new Krantz turf, complete with a purple Bear logo and other BHS nods, made the rounds on social media last week. Work on the turf will begin in May.
While the turf project awaits, crews work to complete a new concession and restroom facility, as well as a ticket booth, at the field as well. The new restrooms have been used intermittently for spring sports as construction allows and the concession stand has a target of late April for use at soccer and track meets.
This benefits the school district and the community in a number of ways.
First, it modernizes facilities in need of attention. The concession stand area provides efficiency and cleanliness to the workers and guests while the field turf increases player safety and is easier to maintain from a drainage standpoint.
Second, it catches Blair up with area schools that have conducted similar projects. Blair at one point had state-of-the-art facilities when they were first constructed, but recent projects have put other districts slightly ahead of Blair from a facility point of view.
Third, and maybe most importantly, it adds to school pride for both students and the community. Student-athletes will be even more primed and ready on those chilly fall nights or warming spring afternoons to welcome the opposition to their home. These improvements show them that the school is invested in their programs and they're willing to make efforts to ensure students have the top-of-the-line amenities as far as safety, quality and aesthetics go.
But it's not just students who are excited for the improvements. Anyone who plans on attending a game or event at Krantz field in the next year or so will likely be impressed with they walk out and see the new turf or use the concession stand. And, without too much doubt, it'll draw comments from opposing fans and teams as well.
Blair High School's programs already have a positive reputation among Nebraska schools and this will simply build on Blair's image.
Of course, these projects would not be possible without the vision of the administration, school board and other employees who took the time to conduct studies, identify funding and work to make sure this was done with both budget and quality in mind.
It's an exciting new era for activities and sports at Krantz Field.
