Did you know that Hershey Entertainment no longer permits Hershey High School’s use of the HersheyPark stadium for football games?

Students at Hershey High School were recently informed about this decision and were not enthused. Hershey High School athletic Director Michael Montedoro shares that the decision was made due to Hershey Entertainment’s decrease in revenue, which is a result of concerts being rescheduled for football games.

This decision will negatively affect the school’s sense of community. Building Design+Construction magazine explains stadiums used for high school sports can boost morale and draw students into the community. Many students find the most sense of school spirit from “Friday night lights” at their school.

In “The Stadium Effect” architects Angel Hosband and Trenton Hansen note “tremendous increases in student morale and health, growth in campus culture, and excitement within their communities ” because of stadiums. After a positive experience at the stadium, students might feel more inclined to participate in other school events (homecoming, prom, Mini-THON, etc.).

The Hershey Stadium makes teenagers feel like they are part of something bigger. Its size provides students with the feeling that they belong at the school, which is the general purpose of after-school events.

Curacubby, a student enrollment company, explained, “After-school programs play a crucial role in the lives of children and adolescents, offering them a safe and supportive environment outside of regular school hours.” Because a stadium has extra space to fit a large population, it allows all students to get involved with their school.

“At first, we were told five games were going to be home games at the stadium,” said Michael Montedoro, Athletic Director of Derry Township School District. “As time went on, multiple concerts were scheduled on our Friday football nights, leading us to find a replacement venue.”

“None of this had to do with the student section,” said Montedoro. “We love our students.” Montedoro said he believes the small size of the HHS turf stadium will create a better and more packed crowd to cheer on the football team. When standing on the field at the HersheyPark Stadium, you can’t hear the crowd. Now, at the new turf stadium, players will hear the students and families cheering.

New rules have also been established regarding the turf stadium. Anyone in grade eight or lower must now be accompanied by an adult to enjoy the game.

Many positives and negatives come along with using the new turf stadium. Choosing the HersheyPark stadium at this point isn’t an option. Either way, HHS Athletics and the school board paved an ideal way for the students to enjoy home games.

Get involved at HHS to ensure the new turf stadium succeeds.