Larkin High School Unveils First Outdoor Sports Stadium

Despite a heavy downpour on Thursday afternoon, a large crowd gathered to celebrate the opening of Larkin High School’s first outdoor sports stadium. Located on Elgin’s west side, this marks a significant milestone in the school’s 64-year history. School District U-46 Superintendent Suzanne Johnson shared excitement about the football homecoming game, which will be played on their own field for the first time.

Larkin High School quarterback Brian Watson addressed the crowd at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Royals Athletic Complex. He anticipated a memorable first football game at the venue. Larkin’s soccer and football teams had been using Memorial Field at rival Elgin High School. Now, all U-46 high schools benefit from having their own fields, emphasized school board Vice President Chanda Schwartz.

The $15.1 million project, initiated in February, was funded through the district’s capital budget. Features of the complex include an artificial turf field, track, lighting, locker rooms, a concession stand, seating for over 2,000, and a pavilion where the ribbon-cutting was hosted. U-46 Assistant Superintendent of Operations Sheila Downs described the complex as “fit for royalty.”

Elgin Mayor Dave Kaptain highlighted the community significance of the stadium, suggesting other high schools might want to imitate this effort. State Sen. Cristina Castro looked back on her Larkin High School graduation 30 years ago, celebrating the team’s independence from playing on an “enemy field.” She commented on the rainy weather, considering it a “blessing.”

State Rep. Anna Moeller expressed appreciation for the Larkin cheerleaders’ perseverance in the rain, as they participated in the ceremony alongside Principal Jason Misicka and quarterback Brian Watson. Misicka encouraged fans to bring their energy and create lasting memories at the upcoming games.

Larkin’s boys soccer team scheduled a match against Geneva High School, followed by a varsity football game against Streamwood High School on Friday evening. After the ribbon-cutting, Misicka noted the games’ significance as the first events on the new field. Former Larkin player Al Green reminisced about past victories, including a notable season in 1969 under coach Ray Haley.

The venue’s field bears Ray Haley’s name, honoring the first football coach and athletic director at Larkin. Green, who preserved a letter from Haley, used the occasion to pay tribute to both Haley and his father, a former principal. Haley’s daughters attended the event, expressing how the new complex reflects their father’s legacy of pride and achievement.

Also present was Carl Taillon, a former player, who honored Coach Haley’s influence and the importance of teamwork. Taillon planned to gather signatures from former players on a helmet from an all-star game he had once participated in, as a tribute to the coaching legacy.