Stoughton Vikings bring life and versatility to Collins Field with the groundbreaking of the Anderson Complex
On Monday, May 9, 2022, the Stoughton Area School District (SASD) and construction management firm CG Schmidt hosted a groundbreaking event to mark the start of the renovation project of Collins Field and the introduction of the new Anderson Complex.
Stoughton, WI – On Monday, May 9, 2022, the Stoughton Area School District (SASD) and construction management firm CG Schmidt hosted a groundbreaking event to mark the start of the renovation project of Collins Field and the introduction of the new Anderson Complex.
Members of SASD staff, Board of Education, businesses, community and the CG Schmidt construction team gathered for a groundbreaking ceremony.
The groundbreaking event began with an introduction by Athletics & Activities Director Andie Alexander, followed by speakers Steve Lyons (President of Stoughton Sports Boosters) and Bob Wahlin (President and CEO of Stoughton Trailers).
This new Anderson Complex project was made possible due to the generous support of Stoughton High School alumni, Keith and Tammy Anderson, Stoughton Trailers, and numerous Stoughton community businesses, families, and individuals.
Alexander started by thanking the “families and individuals in the community, local businesses, Stoughton Sports Boosters, Stoughton Trailers, Eldon Homes, and the Anderson family for your generous donations. This project would not have been possible without your support.”
Alexander noted, “Today marks a turning point for the Collins Field that most have come to know and love over the last 70+ years. We’re excited for the opportunities that the turf field will bring to the school and the community. Its use will no longer be limited to football and soccer, but rather other field sports, activity groups, the marching band, hosting tournaments as well as community use.”
The Stoughton Vikings had a goal that every Stoughton High School soccer player, lacrosse player, track and field athlete, football player, cheerleader, dance team member and band member gets to safely play or perform on the field for all scheduled home events and performances in front of their family, friends, and community. The artificial turf is also expected to provide for an additional 30-40 events per year. These additional events will bring additional revenue to the community and its businesses.
An iconic field for Stoughton alumni, made possible by H.W. Collins in the 1960s, has carried the school through the last 70+ years. However, times have changed and so have the demands of the field. A natural grass surface limits opportunities for use and requires extreme maintenance. The new artificial turf field will allow for football, soccer, lacrosse, and other field sports, as well as marching bands, physical education classes, tournament hosting and community enjoyment.
Stoughton High School reminds the community that the track will be closed to the community until the construction is complete in September.