Live Oak’s Richert Field got a major facelift last year with the addition of turf. Now, the Acorns are getting the bells and whistles along with it.
A new press box was installed earlier this summer to replace one that was red tagged and a new scoreboard was installed Wednesday.
“It’s been a long process, but I think it’s well worth it,” said Athletic Director Mark Cummins.
Cummins said he had wanted a new scoreboard for a couple of years, but things really got rolling thanks to the Live Oak Boosters, who were key to raising the money.
After the boosters came a substantial donation from Common Wealth Credit Union.
Cummins said Common Wealth has exclusive sponsorship rights for the next 10 years thanks to the donation.
“I am just very appreciative for the generous donation and to all the boosters who did all the work,” Cummins said.
The Live Oak class of 2014 also helped pay for the board through its class gift.
The original board was lettered to really only accommodate football. But this new board will have features for field hockey and soccer.
Cummins said LEDs on the board will allow it to be interchangeable depending on the game being played.
The board will also be wider and will have an overall cleaner look.
The scoreboard’s operations will be housed in the brand new press box that replaced the rickety structure that all but collapsed before being torn out last year.
This box has three rooms to accommodate sound, coaches and the press as well as a area on the roof for filming.
“It is much better than the last one, Cummins said.
The new structure was in place by the end of the last school year, but is still receiving its final touches.
Cummins said a new sound system is being installed running through the press box to help with announcing and halftime music performances.
Through all of this, Cummins said the work of the district’s facilities people has been fantastic.
“They have been outstanding. I don’t think they get enough credit, but I’ve been very grateful for all the work they’ve put into (both projects),” Cummins said.
The Live Oak football team will christen the new amenities Sept. 11 when the junior varsity and varsity teams host Christopher High School.
The Live Oak field hockey team will play its first scheduled home game on Sept. 29 against San Jose.
