Safe to slide

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Justin Weaver
  • 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
Although the Ben Eielson High School girls' softball team just finished out its season, a recent upgrade to its home field has them eager to keep playing.

"Our softball field had a very abrasive material on it and our girls kept getting cut up every time they would slide on it," said concerned Ravens Coach Shane McAfee. "I solicited the help of the local community, and thanks to several companies, we were able to upgrade the field."

Ben Lomond Inc. and Great Northwest Inc. donated more than $10,000 worth of time and material to ensure the field was renovated properly.

"I can't thank these companies enough for their generosity and community service," Coach McAfee said. "Without them, we couldn't have pulled this off."

The Ravens' season begins anew next spring and the players look forward to getting on the pitch.

"Everyone is really excited to play next season," said Ravens third baseman and upcoming BEHS senior Brittany Rogers. "It's great not to have to worry about getting hurt when we slide."

According to Coach McAfee, teams from downtown Fairbanks didn't like to play on the Ravens' field.

"Other teams were worried about their players getting hurt, and honestly, that was my main concern and motivation for getting this field fixed," he said. "I didn't want to keep seeing our kids get hurt."

Jim Young, project manager for Great Northwest Inc., is looking forward to attending the games next season.

"It was an honor to be able to help out and give back to the community," he said. "It's vital for the home team to feel they have an advantage when they play at home, and hopefully they'll be a more relaxed and comfortable team next year."