Calvert Hall supports 40 athletic teams and more than 70 clubs and activities. Ninety-one per cent of Calvert Hall students participate in one or more clubs or athletic teams. The new field will serve these programs and their 650+ student participants. The new artificial field will provide additional space and flexibility, especially during times of inclement weather. During the 2016-2017 academic year, more than 100 practices and/or games were canceled due to the grass conditions.

Dr. Thomas Smyth ‘77, Board of Trustees Chair, along with the Brother John Kane FSC, President, are ecstatic to bring this opportunity to the students of The Hall. Dr. Smyth shares. “This field is a testament to the hard work and effort put forth from our national champion marching band, athletic teams, and demand for more intramural space. Nearly 60% of the student population will make regular use of the field.” Brother John proudly added, “We have been looking at this project for several years and are grateful to the donors who have stepped forward. This large multipurpose field will be an amazing upgrade for our students for years to come. It is great for Calvert Hall.”

Brian Ecton, director of instrumental music and the two-time defending National Competition Marching Band, has worked at Calvert Hall for 18 years. The band will now have a level surface to practice on decreasing injuries. Ecton shares, “The current field has been a huge challenge for (the band). Now we will have a perfect field, void of dirt patches, uneven grass, and divots. Students will no longer have to worry about their footing, and this will allow us the opportunity to focus more on our performance and marching technique.”

Athletics Director Lou Eckerl believes this field will help increase the involvement in intramurals as well as decrease the amount of lost practice time. Eckerl expressed, “The field will eliminate scheduling issues due to inclement weather and will help provide a better atmosphere for intramurals and our athletics program.”

 

The installation of the new artificial fields will begin in the coming weeks, and the turf expected to be ready for the start of the 2018-2019 academic year. Calvert Hall is grateful for the generous support provided by a number of benefactors to kick-off this project. The Hall is pleased to partner with the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation for the installation of this project. Individuals interested in supporting this initiative or seeking more details regarding the project are encouraged to contact Mr. Joseph Baker ’76, director of advancement, at bakerj@calverthall.com.