During the 18-month renovation of the pool and softball field, the water polo and swim teams practiced at the Duarte Fitness Center and Rosemead pool. Meanwhile, softball practiced on the multipurpose field. Projects for Measure S: Phase 1B that began on Nov. 16, 2016 were completed on July 26, 2019.
The construction consists of a new aquatic center concession stand, refurbishment of a new CIF regulation 25 yards by 33 meters pool and a new softball field.
“It’s nice to be back in the pool and practicing on a daily basis again,” senior Ethan Tang said. “In addition to the pool being a standard size, the new diving blocks and water polo goals are great and make practices run much smoother.”
Aside from the pool being enlarged about 15 meters, construction renovated the restrooms, added a new deck, scoreboard and bleachers for CIF.
“The locker rooms look cleaner than before,” sophomore Ethan Ma said. “They also added three new showers which help a lot since there are lots of players. Having our own pool makes it easier for us to practice, considering last year we all had to cram onto a small bus and drive a long way just to get to Schurr High School.”
However, there are still remaining problems for the pool and softball field, such as electrical outlets that were not installed near the scoreboards.
“We will need to have a net to keep softballs out of the pool,” Athletic Director Sarah Penalora said.
The new softball field renovated the dugouts, bullpens, 185-ft fence and a new scoreboard, which is located next to the newly renovated pool and portables.
During construction, the JV and varsity girls softball teams shared the multipurpose field to practice for their games.
Two years ago, the girls took a bus to Live Oak Park that would leave if they were not there on time. The new field is now closer and more convenient for the girls softball teams.
“I think the new softball field looks really nice and I am excited to play this season,” sophomore Megan Kho said. “I hope that many students will come and support Rams softball when the season starts.”
TCHS School Newspaper