By Stephen Smoot
At its second meeting of the month, Pendleton County Schools superintendent, board of education members, and other officials received a presentation from Derek Lambert, new Pendleton County Middle/High School principal.
He opened by discussing the ascension into success of several established programs and also achievements enjoyed by those that just opened up to interscholastic competition. He said, “We are obviously pushing the limits of space. We’re using every bit of space.”
Aging facilities used by more athletes currently, and in the future, will require attention. Lambert stated, “All of these are big ticket items.”
Lambert shared a draft of a letter to the community that lists and describes the different needs. These include upgrading the stadium lighting, which “is outdated and poses safety challenges during evening events.” Lambert explained that the lights alone could cost as much as $280,000.
It also touts the need for field improvements to help the surface have “compliance with current safety standards,” a new sports equipment and storage facility, gymnasium and indoor facility improvements, and support for facility and player equipment needs.
Equipment could include a remote robot device that paints lines on ball fields automatically, which would save time for coaches.
He stated that he and Jackee Propst, athletic director, have “a vision to moving this forward,” but added that “our athletic programs are very successful and very grateful for what we have. Mrs. Propst has done a really great job . . . making them into the successes they are now.”
The letter detailing program needs will go out to businesses in Pendleton County and surrounding areas whose schools compete with the Wildcats.
Fundraising will focus on sponsorships ranging from a $250 “White Package” to a $1,500 “Wildcat Package Premium.” In between are the “Navy Package” at $750, “Carolina Package” at $500, and a “Wildcat Package” for $1,000.
Each package offers ascending levels of numbers of game passes, Wildcat promotional souvenirs, such as lanyards, pom poms, and other items. As packages rise in price, they offer more digital and “real world” marketing opportunities at PCM/HS sporting facilities and events.
Lambert shared that they hope that even businesses in neighboring counties will see the importance of support from Pendleton County fans and take part in fundraising efforts.
