The yard lines are marked, the goal posts are in place, and the countdown is on.
In just a few short weeks, students will return to Atlantis Charter School to find a new state-of-the-art track and field complex. This is big news for student athletes and coaches. Atlantis has never had a sports field of its own. Until now.
“I cannot overstate how important this new athletic complex is for these kids. It will be a real morale-builder,” said Jerome Thompson, head football coach. “These kids played on the road every game last season. They were always a visitor on someone else’s field – even for practices. This season they have a place to call home – something to take ownership of instead of always feeling like a visitor.”
The new sports complex sits at the edge of South Watuppa Pond, overlooking the water. It features a synthetic turf field, a running track, modern lighting, fencing and bleachers.
The field gives students home field advantage. This Fall, the Atlantis football and soccer teams will step onto their own field and see their fellow classmates, friends, families and teachers cheering them on from the bleachers.
The football team is preparing for its second season playing at the varsity level. Atlantis is also introducing boys’ and girls’ JV soccer this year. Last year, Atlantis offered soccer to students as part of a co-op with Joseph Case High School in Swansea.
It’s not just the organized sports teams that will benefit. Students will have an opportunity to burn off energy on the field and the track during gym class. Atlantis is also laying down the welcome mat to the community.
“We are proud to share this new facility with other organizations in the Fall River area, giving children across the community access to a state-of-the art facility for sporting events,” said Robert Beatty, executive director of Atlantis Charter School.
The artificial turf field was provided by FieldTurf – a leading manufacturer of synthetic turf. FieldTurf also served as general contractor on the project, overseeing other suppliers and vendors.
Atlantis volleyball returns for the Fall season as well. Like the football and soccer teams, the volleyball team scores home court advantage for the first time. The new Triton Gymnasium was completed after their season ended last year, so they will be playing their first games in the gym this September.
For sports schedules, visit the Atlantis Athletics webpage. You can also follow the Athletic Department on Twitter @ACHSTritons for up-to-date information on scores, events, game changes, or cancellations.