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New Grandstands and Press Box Extend Vision for Ranney Athletics

On April 17, Ranney School dedicated its new grandstand bleachers before a school-wide pep rally, ushering in a new era of Panther Pride and helping to further its inspiring vision for the scholar-athlete. Ranney School is now well-positioned to host Shore Conference championships, NJSIAA competitions, provide its college-bound athletes with game highlights, serve as a training ground for future sports reporters, and bring scores of fans from across the Garden State to the school’s field of dreams.

The latest addition to Ranney’s eminent athletic facilities, made possible by generous parent donations, is equipped with a new press box and video platform, along with aisles, rows and walkways. Located near the lacrosse wall, the stadium-style bleachers have the capacity to hold 415 fans and overlook the Karagianakis Field and Guidone Track. The sizable walk-in press box will feature an announcer’s booth equipped with new computers and upgraded technology to tape and broadcast games, record individual athlete and team statistics, offer play-by-play commentary and provide game footage for coaches and players. In addition, this new equipment will provide innovative opportunities for students interested in learning sports’ management and journalism and will serve as a new space for viewing outdoor Performing Arts programs.

As students, faculty and parents gathered in the new bleachers and surrounding track, Director of Athletics Tom Moriau welcomed the crowd. Student Council President Jordan Hesslein ’13 led the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by members of the Ranney School chorus who sang the National Anthem.

“Our vision for the future was to enhance the athletic experience at Ranney for our athletes in both the classroom and on the field,” Mr. Moriau shared. “This grandstand displays how Ranney is moving forward and will give the school the means to host Shore Conference championships and schools throughout New Jersey for NJSIAA competitions.”

Following Mr. Moriau, Head of School Dr. Lawrence S. Sykoff expressed his pride to the students and guests, saying “As a school, we never stop pursuing our dreams and aspirations…that is what great schools do. Today is another example of our continued ascent to becoming the best we can be.” He went on to explain the value of the school’s motto Nil Sine Magno Vita Labore Dedit Mortalibus or “life has given nothing to man without hard work.”

Senior lifer Ashleigh Shay was invited to the podium to share her reflections from the perspective of a scholar-athlete at Ranney. “Over the past 14 years, I have seen this field transform,” she stated. “The bleachers will serve as an invitation for new and old fans to return to the field and watch the Panthers play. Miracles can happen on a field, and now we have a front row seat to view them.”

Mr. Moriau thanked Ashleigh for her remarks and welcomed Director of Admissions and Financial Aid and Head Lacrosse Coach Joe Tweed to share the many benefits that will come from the new grandstands and press box, including using video game footage as a coaching tool and for recruitment purposes for students who wish to continue their athletic careers in college. “Vision becomes reality with the addition of these bleachers and press box,” he said. “The ability to welcome a growing fan base inspires athletes to do more and become more. Our dedicated and exceptional coaches all share the same gratitude for this addition.”

Contributing parent Karl Brand was next to address the crowd, stating “We are happy to be able to contribute in small and humble ways so the students have a wonderful scholastic and athletic experience that we hope will stand to provide a platform for the school to show its spirit in athletic competition and all other activities that will take place on this field.”

Dr. Sykoff concluded the dedication ceremony with an official proclamation and by speaking about the generous support of the Ranney community. “How fortunate we are to have such committed people who always support our school to be on the forefront of innovation, bringing us opportunity and potential to expand programs in such wonderful facilities,” he said. Students cheered as Dr. Sykoff acknowledged Mr. and Mrs. Karl Brand (Karl ’16), Mr. Peter DeLisa ’84 (Isabella ’22), Mr. and Mrs. Peter Gerhard (Peter Jr. ’15 and Madison ’18), Dr. and Mrs. Rizzo (Dana ’13) and Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Jacobson (Steven ’14). The attending contributors were then presented with plaques and gifts before cutting the ribbon for the official dedication.

Throughout the pep rally, spring sports teams were introduced and applauded for an exceptional start to their seasons. Music from the Ranney School pep band, performances by the Middle School cheerleaders and cheers led by Physical Education teacher Brian Dolan added an extra touch of “Panther pride” to this unforgettable day at Ranney School.
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Ranney School

235 Hope Road
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Tel. 732.542.4777
Our mission is to know and value every child, nurturing intellectual curiosity and confidence, and inspiring students to lead honorably, think creatively, and contribute meaningfully to society.