St. Vincent-St. Mary field gets a new look at ribbon-cutting ceremony

The VanDevere Automotive Family stadium at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School has a new look after renovations.

>The St. Vincent-St. Mary community held a ribbon-cutting ceremony Aug. 5 to celebrate the newly installed synthetic turf field where the Fighting Irish will soon play.

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>"It's all coming together at the right time … The kids are excited, it's been very useful to us," said football coach Marcus Wattley Sr.

>Athletic director Mark Hassman says the new look will bring in a fresh vibe to the community.

>"To have this open with a new football coach, new atmosphere, it just brings the community together and stronger, we are excited about the future," said Hassman.

>Before the ribbon cutting, the stadium was blessed by the Rev. Norm Douglas, who is the co-founder of Heart to Heart Communications and pastor of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church.

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>The VanDevere Automotive family and members had the honor of cutting the ribbon and were welcomed by the high school's cheerleaders and band.

>The VanDevere Automotive Family Stadium naming partnership was announced in 2025 to represent a long-term investment supporting campus improvements and the overall student experience.

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>“This historic partnership and investment marks a defining moment for us,” said David Vitatoe, president of St. Vincent-St. Mary High School. “It advances our bold vision to pair our rich tradition with future-focused innovation, creating exceptional opportunities and enhanced facilities to meet the needs of our growing enrollment.”

>The Fighting Irish will host their home opener Aug. 21 against Nordonia.

>This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: St. Vincent-St. Mary field gets a new look at ribbon-cutting ceremony