As we continue with this COVID-19 pandemic, schools are closed, athletic fields are barren, and thousands of high school athletes remain in limbo, unsure if they’ve played their last games.
In an effort to give a message of ‘hope’ and ‘support’, a national movement is underway to #BeTheLight, turning on the stadium lights at high school facilities around the country.
Since the idea was unveiled here in Wisconsin, less than a week ago, with the Badger State-specific Twitter hashtag of BeTheLightWI, more than ’60’ schools have already participated or pledged to do so in the coming days.
All schools are encouraged to join in the campaign by turning on stadium lights at their fields on Friday, April 10th at 8:00 o’clock. Schools are letting students participating in all forms of extracurricular activities know that they are thinking of them and will be there for them..when they return.
Meanwhile, Randy Heinzen of Manitowoc Youth Sports said on Twitter that the lights were on at the Youth Sports Complex, at Citizen Park, last Friday and will be on again tomorrow night at 8:00.
Two Rivers High School will be lighting up their football and tennis court from 8:00 p.m. to 8:20 p.m. on Friday to honor seniors. A Facebook post encourages families to maintain social distancing while viewing the display of support, “This is not meant for people to gather like it’s a pep rally or house party. This is meant for seniors to come with their families. Not friends…A procession of cars rolling past our high school and our football/track and field and tennis court feels like a perfect response. Honk. Wave to friends. Flash your high beams. Do not get our of your cars.”
Manitowoc Lincoln Athletic Director Dave Steavpack says lights will be on tonight from 8 to 10 p.m. at Ron Rubick Athletic Field in support of high school student-athletes. Blue lights will be on at the main entrance in honor of doctors and nurses who are on the frontlines of this pandemic. No access to the field will be allowed as gates will be locked.
