Revitalizing Lion’s Stadium would reward Walkersville far beyond the practical, long-lasting benefit of restoring functional excellence to a vital facility that has faded with steady decline. Our students would have a better, safer, more weather-resistant venue for sports and school events. That, in turn, can entice greater participation in school programs. Better school programs make better schools, and better schools make better communities. Lion’s Stadium is “our house”: Walkersville’s rallying source of hometown pride and spirit. The place where our youth can—literally—feel and hear and see the support of their community roaring in the grandstands, an exciting place where that sense of community traditionally unites every game-day. Revitalizing such a special place can only have a positive impact on our town. Walkersville also would gain a renewed resource for hosting regional activities. Not only would a premier facility likely encourage greater attendance of patrons at events (boosting school revenue from ticket sales and concessions), but also far greater appeal for area organizations to hold their events here, and, in turn, greater potential for additional local revenue.
Importantly, we—sincerely—believe that participation in sports provides our youth with far more than the measurable benefits of physical exercise. Sports drive greater academic excellence for some. But the stadium is a classroom for all student-athletes, where hands-on lessons in character building get taught daily. That education about life’s values— respect, responsibility, integrity, teamwork, sportsmanship, and leadership— leaves the playing field and develops better citizens. In other words, this becomes a worthy investment in our youth, in our community, and in our future.
“We want to create a place where memories can be shared by athletes, students, fans, and the community. Memories that will be cherished forever. We want to give our kids an athletic complex that will be remembered, not because of poor conditions but, for the celebration of victory on a field of glory.“ Phil Shortt (President, WHS Athletic Boosters)
The bottom line: Walkersville High School’s ‘Field of Glory’ lies in our hands. YOU truly can ‘save the day’ by becoming a Walkersville MVP. Are you an MVP?