The City of Brooksville held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on November 15, 2024, to celebrate the grand reopening of the newly renovated Tom Varn Stadium. This revitalized facility will serve not only as the home field for the Hernando High School (HHS) girls’ softball team but also for the Hernando County Youth League (HYL) Softball program.
Mayor Blake Bell led the ceremony, welcoming guests and detailing the renovations undertaken on the stadium. He then introduced other esteemed figures who played a role in the project.
Former Parks and Recreation Advisory Board member Alan Garman led the Pledge of Allegiance and provided a historical overview of the stadium’s development.
Former Parks and Recreation Director David Pugh spoke about the core motivation behind the renovation: to create a fun and inviting space for children to enjoy playing softball.
HYL Softball Director Stacie Laviano spoke about the league’s plans for utilizing the stadium and also took a moment to honor the memory of Jessica Owen. Ms. Owen, a dedicated coach, director of the Buddy Ball program, and Board Member of the HYL, passed away unexpectedly on September 24, 2024. Her passion and commitment to the Brooksville community were reflected in her creation of the Buddy Ball program, which offers opportunities for children of all abilities to participate in softball and feel included. The program’s legacy and the stadium’s reopening are a testament to her spirit.
Finally, HHS Athletic Director Jeff Laing discussed the benefits the improved stadium would bring to the school’s softball program and its student-athletes.
Then, the dignitaries moved to the field in front of the stadium for a group photo and ribbon cutting and the Grand Reopening Plaque was unveiled. This plaque will be displayed prominently at the stadium to honor the current City Council members whose contributions were instrumental in its completion. Rounding out the festive celebration, refreshments were generously provided by the Brooksville Kiwanis Club.
For information on additional park amenities offered by the City of Brooksville, visit the Parks and Recreation Page on the City’s website: https://cityofbrooksville.us/236/Park-Amenities
[Photo Credit: Rocco Maglio]
