Hundreds of residents and visitors are expected to pour through the newly-erected entrance arch at Pioneer Market Grizzly Stadium this evening.

The Mariposa Grizzlies’ season-opening football game against Summerville’s Bears will christen the new facility which is a project undertaken by the community-based Grizzly Stadium Committee.

In temporary seating for this season, there is a grandstand that will accommodate 780 fans. A much larger crowd is expected, so fans will be allowed to bring chairs to the two games. No easyups or coolers will be allowed, and fans must remain outside the dotted line surrounding the playing field. Security will be at a high level.

General admission is $6 ($1 off with Grizzly Booster membership). Senior citizens can enjoy the contests for $4, and children from 6 years old through junior high are $3. MCHS students with ASB cards are admitted free, and ASB cards will be on sale at the main gate for $25. Concessions will be available at the far end of the field.

The renovation of the athletic fields between MCHS and Mariposa Elementary School is at the 50 percent mark in phase one. In the off season, the two softball fields and junior varsity baseball field will be completely renovated with new backstops, dugouts and fan seating.

The second phase of the project includes installing permanent bleachers that will hold 1,000-1,200 fans, a restroom facility, and a permanent concessions structure.

The community is abuzz about the new facility. The school district is expected to recognize those community members who have made considerable contributions to the effort in both labor and financially at half time of the varsity game.

The junior varsity contest kicks off at 5:30 p.m., followed by the varsity game at 7:30 p.m.

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