KERNERSVILLE — Golden shovels full of Carolina soil were raised by Bishop McGuinness High School stakeholders during the athletic center project groundbreaking ceremony on July 31.
BMHS will start Phase I of its athletic initiative by adding six lighted and fenced-in tennis courts. The Villain Athletic Center will also be upgraded with outdoor bathrooms, concrete sidewalks and the installation of synthetic turf. The track was recently resurfaced and is primed for paint to start off the new season.
“The new tennis courts and outdoor facilities are more than just bricks and asphalt, they are an investment in our students, and they are a reflection of our inspiring growth,” said president Dr. Jared Rashford at the groundbreaking.
Rashford said the new space will be a place where young people can grow in body, mind and spirit.
Through the help of alumni, family and supporters, $2.2 million was raised over the past three years through the Spirit of Victory campaign. This is the first major capital enhancement project the school had since it moved to the Kernersville location almost 25 years ago.
Director Dan Gravo said this is only the beginning and is still actively raising funds for phases two and three, which include additional bleachers and a new press box with permanent concessions.
“This is an incredible day for Bishop Tennis,” said Tennis Coach Larry Ingram. “It has been a long process, but a great goal.”
The tennis facility means the team can practice at home and will no longer need to limit players due to space constraints.
“Hopefully, with six courts, we can keep more people and grow the program,” said Ingram. “Now, for a home match, we are going to be home; that is huge, not at a park but home.”
— Lisa Geraci, photos by Troy C. Hull
