FOND DU LAC (NBC 26) — At Saint Mary's Springs Academy community members gathered to celebrate the start of a new football season.
But this year is different, as they now will play all of their home games at the newly dedicated Hyland Field in honor of former football coach Bob Hyland.
Hyland coached the Ledgers football team from 1971 to 2024.
And he says coming out and seeing the new facility, is truly amazing.
"I have been out here a couple times since they started the project," Hyland said. "Everything has come together. And they did a lot more than I ever expected."
WATCH JACK PORTER'S FULL BROADCAST STORY HERE...
Hyland says that while the tradition of driving to Fruth field in downtown Fond du Lac is over, it's time to start creating new memories. Especially being right next to the school.
"This is a tremendous asset to the school and the community," Hyland said.
Teresa Van Horn is an alumni of Saint Mary's Springs Academy and says having know Hyland for years his dedication to the growth of young adults is unmatched.
"He has given his whole life to this school," Van Horn said. "And to the football program."
Van Horn says that with the unveiling of the new complex and the recognition of coach Hyland it's a perfect way to ring in a new era of Ledgers football.
"It just completes everything, and it now brings us together in one spot," Van Horn said.
Regardless of the final score, people say it's truly fitting to see coach Hyland honored after all he has done for the school.
