A partnership between Bethany College and Smoky Valley USD 400 will bring about vital athletic facility improvements in Lindsborg.

Planned renovations for Anderson Field and Stadium include a multi-purpose turf field and a new, widened track to accommodate a 120 yard by 75 yard soccer field. Significant deficiencies to be immediately addressed are the visitors’ bleachers and the restrooms in the stadium. Improvements to the home side bleachers, concession stand and press box also are planned.

“Through our work together on this project, Bethany and USD 400 will enhance the quality of recreational and athletic life for the college, the high school and the Lindsborg community,” said Bethany College President Edward F. Leonard III.

“I am excited about the opportunity to work with Bethany College and many very interested community members on this project. The successful completion of the complex will not only provide a spirit of pride, but also a much safer field surface to assist in protecting our young people,” said Smoky Valley Superintendent of Schools Glen Suppes.

Working with a budget for renovations in the range of $1.2 million, Bethany College and USD 400 currently have secured commitments of slightly more than $1 million.

Two estate gifts of $350,000 each have been pledged to the project. USD 400 has committed $200,000. Approximately $147,500 has been raised from various sources, including Bethany College alumni, parents and friends and USD 400 supporters.

For the project to come to completion by mid-August, in time for the fall football season, additional funds of approximately $169,000 must be in hand by April 1.

The renovations are targeted to benefit the greatest number of student-athletes and athletic teams as possible.

Philip Anderson Field is used by Bethany College, Smoky Valley High School and Lindsborg Middle School. During football season, the field hosts up to four games a week. Cheer squad and dance team members regularly perform on the field, which also is used for summer athletic camps and community youth programs. The multi-purpose turf field will better handle frequent use and the Kansas weather.

Similarly, D.L. Anderson Memorial Track is used by college, high school and middle school track and field teams for meets. In addition, it is used for practices and recreational exercise by a variety of student-athletes and community members.

At present, Bethany College men’s and women’s soccer teams share a grass field east of the stadium for games and practices. The new multi-purpose field, designed to be the optimum width for soccer, will bring soccer games into the stadium.

A committee developed in December 2007 by Coach Ted K. Kessinger first began research on the multi-purpose turf field project. As special consultant to the president at Bethany, Kessinger is responsible for aiding in research and feasibility studies that pertain to achieving athletic excellence at Bethany College.

The committee, which included representation from the Lindsborg community, Smoky Valley Public Schools, Bethany College personnel and Bethany students, was advised by a board of athletic directors, coaches and medical professionals. It reported its findings to President Leonard. Since that report, Bethany College and Smoky Valley USD 400 have worked in tandem on the project.

To learn more about how to contribute, please contact Kessinger at tkessinger@cox.net or 785-227-2107. Or, call the Bethany College Athletic Department at 785-227-3380, ext. 8184.