The weather was perfect as supporters of Elyria Catholic High School’s Panther Nation gathered on Aug. 23 for the blessing of the long-awaited new bleachers and press box in Dan Reaser Stadium.
Fans celebrated and recognized the contributions of Hal Minnich, ’53, the Dads’ Boosters and the Knight of Columbus, all of whom were instrumental in the stadium renovation project. Their names are painted in green on the white press box as a sign of EC’s appreciation for their years of support.
(See photo gallery above.)
The festivities began with a reception under a big tent that drew more than 150 people. Guests included donors to the Bleacher Fund, alumni and special guests.
After the reception, fans headed to Reaser Field for the main events: the blessing and the first football game of the season.
Father Frank Kosem, former pastor of nearby St. Jude Parish in Elyria; Father Joe Scalco, St. Jude pastor; retired Deacon Pat Humphrey, ’70, and Deacon Kyle Rosser extended the blessing and sprinkled holy water throughout the crowd of Panther fans who were seated on the new bleachers.
The new seating accommodates 2,058 fans, an increase of 258 seats.
The Hal Minnich Press Box is the new home to the scoreboard, clock operators, the announcer, spotter, media, assistant football coaches and visitors to the president’s box.
The Panthers met the Bishop Hartley Hawks in the game, but fell 48-28.
Click here for more information on the stadium renovation.