Jamboree game to highlight improvements
Published 12:00 am Thursday, August 18, 2011
The Opp Bobcats will kick off its preseason with a fresh new look to its stadium tonight.
For the past year, Channel-Lee Stadium has undergone renovations, including a new pressbox, south wall, concession stand and restroom facilities.
Superintendent Michael Smithart said tonight is an exciting time for Opp.
“We are certainly proud of what we have been able to accomplish by combining the efforts of the city, school system and our band and athletic boosters,” he said. “We feel we are on the way to having a truly first-class facility. We still have some work to do, but this was a huge first step.”
Additionally, Smithart said with the new renovations, comes new rules.
“First the ‘back gate’ at the field level will no longer be an admission gate,” he said. “This gate will be reserved for handicapped patrons and emergency personnel. All spectators will enter via the main gate or at the gate on the west end of the stadium.”
Smithart said personal vehicles will no longer be allowed inside the stadium. An exception will be made for handicapped fans, he said.
Additionally, special accommodations have been made for handicapped fans, including a handicapped seating area in front of the new restrooms and concession area.
“There is designated handicapped parking available on the west end of the stadium at the old entrance,” he said.
Buses for the visiting team will still be allowed to park behind the visitors’ bleachers, he said.
“Game officials will enter the back gate and park near the dressing area,” Smithart said.
Tonight’s jamboree against W.S. Neal will begin at 6 p.m.