The VanDevere Automotive Family stadium at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School has a new look after renovations.
The St. Vincent-St. Mary community held a ribbon-cutting ceremony Aug. 5 to celebrate the newly installed synthetic turf field where the Fighting Irish will soon play.
“It’s all coming together at the right time … The kids are excited, it’s been very useful to us,” said football coach Marcus Wattley Sr.
Athletic director Mark Hassman says the new look will bring in a fresh vibe to the community.
“To have this open with a new football coach, new atmosphere, it just brings the community together and stronger, we are excited about the future,” said Hassman.
Before the ribbon cutting, the stadium was blessed by the Rev. Norm Douglas, who is the co-founder of Heart to Heart Communications and pastor of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church.
The VanDevere Automotive family and members had the honor of cutting the ribbon and were welcomed by the high school’s cheerleaders and band.
The VanDevere Automotive Family Stadium naming partnership was announced in 2025 to represent a long-term investment supporting campus improvements and the overall student experience.
“This historic partnership and investment marks a defining moment for us,” said David Vitatoe, president of St. Vincent-St. Mary High School. “It advances our bold vision to pair our rich tradition with future-focused innovation, creating exceptional opportunities and enhanced facilities to meet the needs of our growing enrollment.”
The Fighting Irish will host their home opener Aug. 21 against Nordonia.
This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: St. Vincent-St. Mary field gets a new look at ribbon-cutting ceremony