Four light poles are coming down at Martinsville High School Monday after an inspector found severe cracks and rotting in the wooden poles, and with no lights nights are a no-go.
“I have already instructed the athletic director and I’ve met with the football coach that they should plan for this upcoming season to have day games,” said Dr. Scott Kizner, Superintendent of Martinsville Public Schools.
School officials have already locked the gate and posted a sign to keep people out. Their goal is to make sure no one gets injured inside the stadium.
“Our main concern is that a significant wind could topple the poles and the lighting and the way the poles are situated they would fall right on the spectators and or players,” Kizner explained.
The Superintendent couldn't say how often the lights and poles are inspected or when the last inspection was, but says he's not taking any chances and refuses to rush the contractor.
“We're going to do it, we're going to do it right and if that means this season we have to have all day games then that's what we will have,” Kizner said.
Hearing his senior football season will see some significant changes doesn't seem to shake one defensive end.
“Everything's okay because other teams in the district play on Friday, so us having to play on Saturday we’ll get bigger crowds, and I like playing in front of big crowds,” said Ronwyn Pritchett, a Martinsville High School football player.
The school system is turning to Martinsville City Council for help paying for the four new lights.
In the meantime, home games will be played at 1:00 p.m. on Saturdays.
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