2009

Posted by Bob on October 30, 2009 under Daily Blogs | Be the First to Comment

Current condition of NHS soccer field in front of goal.

For anyone who doubts the severity of the condition of the Naugatuck High School athletic fields, please take a drive along Rubber Avenue and take a look at the soccer field. While both the boys and girls varsity programs will strongly contend for Naugatuck Valley League and state championships, the quality of their playing surface does not come close to their outstanding caliber of play. The condition of our fields not only limits our athletes, but our fantastic band members and color guard as well.

Lots of mud at NHS soccer field.

Many stakeholders have met as part of our Turf 2015 efforts over recent months to investigate the installation of synthetic grass at both the soccer and football/baseball/softball fields. Much discussion and due diligence has yielded ideas, plans and an engineering cost analysis. While state of the art synthetic grass can be installed within a matter of months, the Borough has no local dollars available during these difficult economic times. While the maintenance cost benefits are significant over time, the initial investment is expensive.

Snyder Field at Municipal Stadium in Waterbury with a synthetic grass surface paid for with state funds.

Naugatuck needs the assistance of state and/or federal dollars to make the badly needed repairs. If you are a coach, parent or student who believes we deserve better, I ask you to write your state and federal legislators for assistance. Our administration has made it clear that improving our high school’s athletic complex is a priority, but it helps to have the many voices of those who use the fields on a daily basis speak as one. Naugatuck has one of the best high schools in the state to watch a game or band competition, but our ability to host championship quality events is limited. Inclement weather only worsens the situation. Contact information for our fantastic legislative delegation can be obtained here.

Please feel free to contact our office ( bob@bobmezzo.com or 203-720-7009) if you would like to obtain facts and figures about the proposed project.