BENEFITS: Poly’s new sports facilities provide external and economical rewards.
By Timothy Chen, Sports Editor
A Measure B bond granted back in 2001 provided Arlington, Ramona, North and Poly High School with $44 million for school construction projects. Poly received $13.7 million of that grant; $7.3 million was allotted to the aquatics center and the rest spent on the tennis courts, football stadium and softball fields. With its construction finished last year, the aquatics center is state-of-the-art. In addition to modern architecture, it features a 50 meter pool, a solar heating system integrated into the roof, a locker room and a snack bar. The addition of two softball fields on Poly’s campus eliminates the need for multiple practices, as teams can now use both fields simultaneously. The football stadium now includes artificial turf, a lighting system that allows the field to be used at all times and large bleachers that accommodate more spectators. The tennis court was expanded and renovated to hold more players, which is ideal for tournaments.
Not only has the addition of these new facilities provided students with a modern environment, but it has also helped the district economically. “We’ve had a lot of different groups come in and use our facilities,” Athletic Director Mr. Jim Vaughn said. Parties ranging from local groups, such as the Riverside Rams and the Andulka Park Tennis Center, to international groups, such as professional water polo teams from Canada, France and Poland, have utilized the facilities. Each outside party that uses the facilities must pay a compensatory fee to the district, per the Civic Center Act. Direct charges compensate for custodial overtime, power, water, maintenance, restoration and refurbishment.
The new facilities created financial benefits for Poly, not only from outside parties, but also from the school itself. Solar heating in the pool reduced the need for electricity, artificial turf reduced maintenance and additional room allowed for efficient accommodation of students. “It is money well invested in the kids of our district,” Assistant Director of Facilities Projects Kevin Hauser said. Ultimately, Hauser assures that the primary goal of these facilities is to provide engaging exercise and a well-rounded education through sports.