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ShareLacombe field, fieldhouse plan supported
By Jack Wilson - Red Deer Advocate
Published: November 21, 2008 6:13 PM
Updated: November 27, 2008 9:22 AM
Support continues to grow in Lacombe for a $2.5-million multi-purpose field and fieldhouse.
The project, which is the brainchild of Lacombe and District Minor Football, received approval in principle from the County of Lacombe on Thursday.
“We’re very excited by the support,” Mike Wood, head coach of the Lacombe Raiders bantam team, said Friday.
The group will now take its case to town council and the Wolf Creek School Division.
The group, which has discussed the plan for more than two years, started the drive in earnest about a year ago, Wood said.
“Lacombe Minor Football had this dream and we got together with some town people and it skyrocketed from there,” Wood said.
The complex would be located at the current football field at Lacombe Composite High School and feature all-weather turf and lights.
A field house complete with change rooms, concession, storage and spotting tower would also be built.
Bleachers and relocation of the running track from Michener Park are also in the plan.
Wood said the field could also serve the sports of soccer, rugby, field lacrosse and other field sports.
He said fundraising will begin Dec. 1.
The group has also explored other funding avenues including provincial grants.
“We haven’t approached anyone yet but we’ve looked at a few grants.”
Wood doesn’t think the current flux in the economy will hurt.
Renting it to other groups will also help defray operating costs.
“I think there’s so much interest in the town and from alumni and other groups in the area. There’s also a lot of companies that would like to be involved,” he added.
The fact Lacombe is growing so rapidly also creates pressure for improved field space.
He said a drawing point is the all-weather turf, which can be used year-round. Much used fields will stand up better with the synthetic turf.
Wood said synthetic turf has proven to reduce injuries to ligaments and long-term injuries including head because of its giving nature.
The all natural surface requires little maintenance such as watering and weed control.
He said there’s great demand for field use now in town.
Contact Jack Wilson at jwilson@reddeeradvocate.com
