No stadium for Montesano High football this season

MONTESANO, Wash. — It has been a year since a suspicious fire destroyed the stadium bleachers at Montesano High School.

The team was told the stadium bleachers would be rebuilt in time for their homecoming game this year, but now that is not going to happen.

Concrete risers used to construct the new bleachers were built incorrectly, causing the delay.

"Each one of them had at least one problem," said Montesano School District Superintendent Dan Winter.

When the concrete risers were being installed, it became clear some were bowed and they were clearly not square. All of the risers installed so far will have to be removed, and the sub-contractor on the project will re-build them for no additional cost to the district. However, the delay means no varsity football at the stadium this year.

"It disappoints me because it means these kids are not going to be able to play on their home field," said Winter.

After last year's fire, the team had to play all its games on the road, but still managed to become state champs. The players were still hoping to return to their home field this season, however, and said that they can't believe the construction was done incorrectly.

"It kinda sucks not being able to play on your home field you've played on all your life," Montesano Bulldog quarterback Noah Ewing said.

Senior linebacker and tight end Kenny Roy also said it's a letdown but the team plans to do what they do best and that's focus on football.

"Not really a whole lot we can do, so we just have to focus on the season and not worry about where we are playing," said Roy.

If the concrete risers are constructed properly next time, the district anticipates the rebuilt stadium will be open in time for the spring sports season.