More than 150 people gathered at Watsonville High School on Oct. 17 for the official opening of the athletic field’s new bleachers and announcer’s booth.
Principal Joe Gregorio welcomed the crowd at Geiser Field that included former principals Elaine Legoretta, Murray Shekman and Nancy Bilicich.
Gregorio referred to the event as a “new chapter in the wonderful history of Watsonville High School.”
“This beautiful athletic field has meant years of planning, teamwork and dedication by so many people who care deeply about Watsonville Wildcatz,” Gregorio said.
Bilicich, who graduated with the class of ‘69, said she welcomed the upgrade.
“My father graduated from here in 1936,” she said. “And my brother graduated from this school. It’s where my parents met. So this place is family to me and, yes, I’ve seen some big changes here. This is a huge improvement.”
Watsonville Mayor Maria Orozco said the upgraded field represents opportunity and connection.
“It’s a place where students will train, grow and create memories that they will carry far beyond high school,” she said.
Adding to the spirit of the gathering was the four-piece WHS student band, Lineá de Oro, which delivered a pair of songs that led up to the ribbon cutting.
The job entailed replacing old wood bleachers that were nearing 60 years old, and giving the scoreboard a tuneup. Geiser Field got an entirely new artificial turf more than a decade ago. Next on the improvement list at the field are new restrooms.
