KERNERSVILLE — The first girls tennis home match on new Bishop McGuinness High School’s new tennis courts, was more than a “love-ly” sight – it was a milestone three years in the making.
A Sept. 30 ribbon-cutting was held for the $6 million project that added six new tennis courts, a new practice field and outdoor restrooms.
“We are celebrating 25 years in Kernersville this year, and it is really special to see your faces, the same ones that have been with us throughout this whole time and process,” President Jared Rashford said to the players, students, staff and donors who attended the event. “This marks the completion of our first major capital improvements to the campus in that 25-year period.”
Father Christopher Brock, campus minister, blessed the new courts before a real battle ensued against two current Villains players and state champions - Lucia Neves, a junior, and Luke Ansari, a senior.
Neves won, but not for the last time that night. Afterward, the entire girls team fought hard to earn their first victory on their new home court against rivals South Davidson High School.
This project may be the school’s first, but it will not be the last.
“Other items in future plans include the construction of a new press box with a concession stand, construction of visitor bleachers and expanding our home section,” Rashford said. “And, in the main footprint of the building, we are looking at opportunities to expand some of the usable spaces for our St. Gabriel program.”
The campus, which has seen its largest enrollment at 502, up 18% from five years ago, made some additional improvements over the summer, including renovating the chapel and redoing the floor, plus adding bleachers in the gym.
“As we enter our 25th year here and look at the legacy we were given, we are building on that legacy through these projects,” Rashford said. “They are a testament to the school’s commitment to continue to build upon the solid foundation.”
— Lisa Geraci, photos provided
