The Scotts Valley Sports Complex volunteer organization announced it has secured funding and commitments totaling more than $1 million toward the first phase of the ScottsValleyHigh School sports complex. Scotts Valley Sports Complex, in partnership with the ScottsValleyUnifiedSchool District and SVHS Falcon Club, will use the funds to begin construction of an all weather track, turf playing field, bleacher seating, press box, and storage. The first phase will total nearly $5 million, while the entire sports complex, including the aquatic center, is expected to total nearly $10 million.
Currently, SVHS is the only county school that does not fund athletics with school district budget. All SVHS athletics are funded solely by the all-volunteer Falcon Club, which is tasked with raising $200,000 or more each year to pay coaches and referee stipends, purchase uniforms and equipment, and maintain equipment. Each athletic team also raises funds for specific team needs.
“ScottsValleyHigh School has built an exceptional athletics program with under-developed fields and without the benefit of a pool or useable track,” said Julia Blanton, co-founder of Scotts Valley Sports Complex. “Athletics, both after school and as part of physical education classes, are critical to all students. While the school has managed to develop top-notch athletes and confident and fit students, we’ve also suffered our fair share of consequences, including many cancelled or relocated events. Since the school’s founding in 1999, it has never hosted a home track meet, and SVHS is one of just two public high schools in the county without such facilities. We believe the time to resolve that is now.”
Widespread Support
Donations to date have come from a wide range of donors – parents, former students, businesses and foundations.
“We are thrilled to be partnering with this group of dedicated fundraisers,” said Penny Weaver, SVUSD superintendent. “Our high school and district administration, along with Falcon Club leadership, are working hand-in-hand with SVSC to move the project forward, while also meeting state requirements.”
Project Scope
SVSC is currently processing plans through the Division of State Architect and expects to have a permit to begin construction by mid-2016, if donations reach the $5 million necessary for Phase I. In addition to the Phase I track and field, plans for Phase II would focus on the aquatic center, which will include a 25-yard, 10-lane pool meeting swim team and water polo requirements, showers and bathrooms, the associated equipment, buildings and fencing.
About SVSC
SVSC is an all-volunteer, non-profit committee operating under the Scotts Valley High School Falcon Club, and is dedicated to raising funds to complete athletic facilities at ScottsValleyHigh School in Scotts Valley, CA. Its mission is to create an environment where every student and member of the community has the opportunity to explore athletic interests and reach his or her fullest potential, while promoting an active, healthy lifestyle.
To donate, or for more information, visit: www.supportsvsc.org.