Ventura College Unveils New Stadium After 54-Year Journey

Strategic Insights -

After decades of hopes and struggles, Ventura College finally has a state-of-the-art stadium on its campus. The $8.5 million VC Sportsplex is the culmination of a long-held dream for the college's football team. The facility, which was conceptualized nearly 10 years ago, secured funding through the Measure S bond in 2002 and broke ground almost five years ago. The Pirates will host their first home game against Los Angeles Valley College in the new stadium.

Key Takeaways:

  • The new VC Sportsplex is a 3,300-seat stadium with a $8.5 million price tag.
  • The facility was conceptualized nearly 10 years ago and secured funding through the Measure S bond in 2002.
  • The stadium was built after a half-century of failed attempts to build a football stadium on campus.
  • Former player, coach, and dean Steve Tobias is credited with envisioning the facility's footprint in 1999.
  • The stadium is set to host its first game against Los Angeles Valley College at 7 p.m. on Saturday, September 4.
  • The facility was built without permanent seating for the Ventura College women's soccer team, who have been playing in the arena for three years.
  • The stadium features a massive video board, which public address announcer Ric Ruffinelli is excited to learn the inner workings of.
  • The Pirates will be playing at home for the first time in 54 years, providing a true home-field advantage for the team.
  • Former St. Bonaventure coach Mack, who has coached at Larrabee for 16 years, will finally experience a home game with his team.
  • The new stadium is expected to bring in more fans and create a more home-field-like atmosphere for the team.
  • Jersey Mike's Subs is sponsoring the pregame ceremonies, and there is large excitement among the college's staff, students, and the community.

Statistics:

  • The new VC Sportsplex has a seating capacity of 3,300 spectators.
  • The stadium was built with a price tag of $8.5 million.
  • The Measure S bond secured funding for the stadium in 2002.
  • The stadium was conceptualized nearly 10 years ago.
  • The Pirates will play their first home game in 54 years on Saturday, September 4.
  • The stadium features a massive video board.
  • The stadium was built over a period of almost five years.

Sources:

  • Ventura County Star, "Ventura College Unveils New Stadium After 54-Year Journey," Joe Curley, Sep 4, 2009
  • http://www.venturacountystar.com
  • McClatchy-Tribune Information Services