Mike Callas never started a project he did not finish.
He believed that showing up and perseverance were the most important parts of success. Shortly before his sudden death, Mike agreed to serve as an honorary co-chair of the North High Stadium Project. We, the North High School Stadium Committee, cannot let his last project be his first unfinished project. For this reason, the Committee has pledged to complete the stadium and dedicate it to his memory.

For forty-six years, North Hagerstown High School has shared a stadium with South Hagerstown High. While sharing was an innovative solution to both political and funding problems in an era of just two sports – boys’ football in the fall and track in the spring – it is no longer a viable or cost-effective alternative and has not been for years.

In 2003-2004, there were 71 athletic events and two all-day band contests scheduled at School Stadium at South High. In addition to boys’ football in the fall and track in the spring, the stadium now hosts boys’ and girls’ soccer, (varsity and junior varsity,) and boys’ and girls’ lacrosse. Events are almost impossible to schedule in a way that is conducive for parents to attend their children’s games. At the same time, the field itself is overused to the point of abuse.

Our task is difficult but it can be accomplished. We know that many worthwhile causes seek your dedicated endorsement and charitable contributions. Still, we know a stadium for North High is an investment in our children and our community. As chairs of this $2.3 million capitalcampaign, we ask you to share our enthusiasm through your generous financial support.

The Mike Callas Stadium at North Hagerstown High School will be a lasting celebration of our “Coming Home.” At the same time, it will encourage those of us interested in “Building Community.” Together, we can complete this project in Mike Callas’ memory as a tribute to the many contributions he made to our community. Thank you in advance for your generosity.