The Larrabee stadium will be under construction to make way for an ice rink
On Feb. 28, 2025 VHS announced its decision to turn the football field into an ice rink, which in turn will change their football team into a hockey team. Not only will VHS have a new hockey team but there are also plans to have a figure skating team. Building will begin in April and should extend until late May.
The plan includes converting the turf field into a full-scale ice rink, complete with boards, glass panels and a refrigeration system to make sure that the ice is playable year-round. According to the administration, the project will be funded through a mix of grants, donations from the local community and partnerships with local businesses.
Not only will the ice rink be used for winter sports, but it also will be used for community events throughout the year, especially during the winter, such as winter festivals, ice-skating shows for the community, free skating, figure ice skating classes for residents or anyone who wants to learn and as well to make an amicable space for everyone involved. The hopes for this shift is to bring the city closer together and provide a sense of community and a place for fun and recreational activities.
The decision to convert VHS’ football field into an ice rink was met with mixed feelings from the student body.
Emily Lukas ‘26 said, “I’ve been watching ice skating for years and I was so excited when I heard the news. I can’t wait to turn my high jump into a triple axel.”
Because of the recent announcement of this being an increment of ice skates, many track runners are trading their sneakers for skates. Administration is also thinking of having some races still happen but on ice having some of their top runners hopefully turn into their top skaters. The other sport to think about is the football team. Though their season is over for the year many still have expressed mixed emotions, some excited and some very mad.
Brad Cumberbatch ‘27 junior varsity football player said, “I’ve been pretty mad these past few days, because I’ve been on the football team for two years, what am I supposed to do now?”
