The softball complex at Oconto Falls High School has scored another major donation.
Saputo Cheese, one of Oconto County’s largest employers, plans to contribute $25,000 toward the development of the softball fields north of the high school.
Superintendent Dave Polashek announced the donation to the School Board on Monday. The agreement is scheduled to be finalized by attorneys before the School Board meeting Feb. 10, then approved by the board.
Calls to a Saputo Cheese representative involved with the contribution were not returned on Tuesday morning.
According to Athletic Director Jerry Moynihan, a check presentation will take place at an upcoming basketball game and will involve Saputo employees from the Lena location and Panther Pride, the community group overseeing the project.
Panther Pride and its partners broke ground at the two-diamond facility in October 2012, and the OFHS softball teams are scheduled to use the facility for the first time this spring.
Two failed referendums seeking funds for athletic facilities prompted community members to form Panther Pride and initiate a grass-roots effort to raise funds to develop outdoor facilities. The softball complex is the first to be completed, while the vision for baseball, football and track improvements remain.
Aside from its own fundraising efforts, Panther Pride has received contributions from the school district and other sources. Community Memorial Hospital contributed $75,000 over a three-year span, securing naming rights to the fields. 7UP contributed a $8,500 initial donation and a $40,000 commitment over 10 years. The Oconto Falls Booster Club is another supporter, initially making a $15,000 donation. Oconto Electric Cooperative unveiled a $10,000 check at the Panther Pride fundraising banquet in November.
The softball complex is in its third and final phase. Construction of a pavilion with restrooms and handicapped accessibility is scheduled to begin when weather permits, according to Moynihan.
“We have the plans and the money,” he said.
Fencing around the complex and long-term erosion control were completed in the fall, and the infield is ready.
With fields available at the high school this spring, varsity softball players will no longer travel to Memorial Field and junior varsity players to Pleasant View Park for practices and games. The teams can practice at the same location, share equipment and move players between the two fields.
The new fields will also be used for youth leagues in the summer and will allow the school district to host tournaments.
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