NFL Legends Visit Revamped Field in East Palo Alto
The Los Robles-Ronald McNair sports field in East Palo Alto has undergone a major transformation, thanks to the efforts of elected officials and professional athletes. The $5.5 million renovation, funded by donations, has transformed the field into a regulation-sized football stadium that can also be used for soccer.
On Wednesday, NFL players Mekhi Blackmon of the Colts, Rejzohn and Nahshon Wright of the Saints and Bears, attended a celebration to mark the completion of the project. The athletes reminisced about their childhood experiences playing on the field, which has now been revamped with modern facilities.
"It's outstanding, it's so cool," said 11-year-old Kulia Lutui, who attends Costano School of the Arts. "Looking at it, it gives me an idea of what the experience at a real NFL field looks like." Jairo Juarez, another student from the same school, echoed similar sentiments, saying that playing on the field felt like he was one of the football players.
The renovation has been hailed as a significant investment in the community, with Ravenswood City School District School Board member Jenny Bloom noting that it's a testament to the grit and determination of East Palo Alto residents. The field is now open for public reservations and after-hours community use, providing young athletes with a world-class facility to hone their skills.
The renovated field comes ahead of major sporting events in the area, including the Super Bowl and World Cup, which will bring international attention to the city. As one of the players who once called the field home, Rejzohn Wright said that seeing its transformation was "a surreal moment" for him and his family.
The Los Robles-Ronald McNair sports field in East Palo Alto has undergone a major transformation, thanks to the efforts of elected officials and professional athletes. The $5.5 million renovation, funded by donations, has transformed the field into a regulation-sized football stadium that can also be used for soccer.
On Wednesday, NFL players Mekhi Blackmon of the Colts, Rejzohn and Nahshon Wright of the Saints and Bears, attended a celebration to mark the completion of the project. The athletes reminisced about their childhood experiences playing on the field, which has now been revamped with modern facilities.
"It's outstanding, it's so cool," said 11-year-old Kulia Lutui, who attends Costano School of the Arts. "Looking at it, it gives me an idea of what the experience at a real NFL field looks like." Jairo Juarez, another student from the same school, echoed similar sentiments, saying that playing on the field felt like he was one of the football players.
The renovation has been hailed as a significant investment in the community, with Ravenswood City School District School Board member Jenny Bloom noting that it's a testament to the grit and determination of East Palo Alto residents. The field is now open for public reservations and after-hours community use, providing young athletes with a world-class facility to hone their skills.
The renovated field comes ahead of major sporting events in the area, including the Super Bowl and World Cup, which will bring international attention to the city. As one of the players who once called the field home, Rejzohn Wright said that seeing its transformation was "a surreal moment" for him and his family.