With the construction of Blake Center, Westminster lost a huge asset in Broyles Field. From lacrosse practice to Middle School recess to just a general hang-out space, Westminster benefited immensely from the open field. So, when construction started, the community didn’t know if or when the Broyles Field space was coming back. 

However, these concerns were completely unfounded. Anne Sofie Hankla, Middle School Director of Operations, says, “I don’t think the space was ever considered for anything else.” Too valuable to be transformed for another use, Broyles field is returning to its original form.

Although Broyles Field is coming back, it will not be re-opening until August. This is a huge setback for the lacrosse program. The lacrosse program is now having to practice on the softball field. Players are working much harder to get to practice. “It makes you a little bit tired before practice,” says 8th grader Hunt Lowrie. “You have to go all the way there and try to eat before practice.”

The new Broyles will be considerably improved with installation of a drainage system. The field will be able to be used more often, and students will stay cleaner in wet weather, mud having been a huge problem in the past.

Middle Schoolers flock to Broyles Field during recess. Without the field, recess has been cramped. Only a patio is able to be utilized during recess. Middle Schoolers look forward to getting the space they need back.