A heavy rain on Thursday afternoon did not deter a large crowd eager for the unveiling of Larkin High School’s first outdoor sports stadium in more than six decades. Located on the west side of Elgin, the event marked a significant milestone for the community.

School District U-46 Superintendent Suzanne Johnson expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming homecoming game, highlighting that it would be the first time Larkin’s football team could play on their own field.

“The [football] homecoming game is Friday, and it’s a game they can finally play on their own field,” Johnson said.

Brian Watson, quarterback for Larkin High School, addressed those gathered at the ribbon-cutting ceremony. He emphasized the importance of hosting their first football game at the new venue, calling it a night to remember. Previously, Larkin’s soccer and football teams played at Memorial Field, the campus of their rival, Elgin High School.

Vice President of the school board, Chanda Schwartz, noted that with the completion of this project, all five U-46 high schools now enjoy the benefits of a ‘home-field advantage.’

The stadium, a $15.1 million project, broke ground in February. Funded through the district’s capital budget, it features an artificial turf field, a track, lighting, locker rooms, a concession stand, seating for over 2,000, and a pavilion that hosted the ribbon-cutting.

“It’s fit for royalty — the Larkin Royals, that is,” stated U-46 Assistant Superintendent of Operations, Sheila Downs.

Elgin Mayor Dave Kaptain celebrated this addition to the community. He suggested that other high schools could look to emulate this achievement.

“Games will be lost and won here and soon forgotten, but the memories created will last forever,” said Kaptain.

State Senator Cristina Castro, a Larkin alum, expressed her joy in seeing the team finally possessing their field. The sentiment was shared as the rain was deemed a blessing despite its abundance during the event.

State Representative Anna Moeller praised the Larkin cheerleaders for their patience and perseverance in the rain, as they took part in the celebration. Together with Principal Jason Misicka and quarterback Brian Watson, they anticipated a vibrant atmosphere for the games.

Misicka looked forward to fans filling the stands and creating lasting memories. Watson echoed this enthusiasm, recognizing the significance of being among the first to play at the new venue.

On Friday, Larkin’s boys soccer team was scheduled to compete against Geneva High School, followed by a varsity football match featuring the Royals and the Streamwood High School Sabres.

Al Green, a Larkin alum and former football player, cherished the legacy of Ray Haley, the school’s first athletic director and football coach. The field is aptly named Ray Haley Field in his honor.

Haley’s family, including his daughters, attended the ribbon-cutting, expressing deep appreciation for the tribute to their father’s legacy.

“This means so much to us. My father was all about building a culture and climate of pride. This is a testimony to his legacy,” said Jennifer Haley.

Carl Taillon, another former football player, shared memories of Coach Haley’s influence on teaching teamwork and character.

“Coach Haley taught us a lot about teamwork and character — and that hard work pays off,” remarked Taillon.