Antigo board OKs planning for Scofield Stadium relocation; fundraising to cover costs

The Unified School District of Antigo Board approved moving forward with planning to relocate Scofield Stadium to land adjacent to Antigo High School and authorized district staff to begin soliciting donations and grant conversations.

Jake Leiderman, buildings and grounds presenter, told the board “we're looking for tonight is just approval from the board to continue with the planning” and to begin discussions with potential donors. The project team said the existing Scofield bleachers have been condemned and the move would let the district build a multi-use field near the high school that teams beyond football could use.

Tom (Mr.) Scofield and members of the Gridiron Club presented the proposal. Matt Sundemeyer, treasurer of the Gridiron Club, said the relocation “is gonna be huge” for athletics and community access and that moving the stadium will make outside fundraising easier. Jerry Gillespie, who described prior fundraising experience in other communities, asked the board for permission to “be the coach of the recruit of the financial team” and outlined steps: organize a fundraiser group, apply for grants, and designate school liaisons for handling donations and tax-credit paperwork.

Board members and staff clarified that the district did not commit construction funds. Gillespie told the board, “Is this gonna cost the district anything? No,” while describing that the group would rely on private donors, grants and volunteer effort. Administrators said the buildings and grounds committee will coordinate with the volunteer fundraising group and the business office for donation handling.

The board approved the motion to continue planning and solicit donations. No construction contract or district capital commitment was approved; administrators said further approvals will be required if fundraising reaches an actionable stage.