District approves $1M partnership for new Poky High football field

POCATELLO — The Pocatello High School football team may be kicking off its 2022 season on a new turf field.

At its meeting Tuesday, the Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25 Board of Trustees approved a $1 million partnership with Lookout Credit Union to fund the new outdoor facility. The Lookout Credit Union Field at Pocatello High School Stadium will be at Hawthorne Middle School, replacing the current field, according to a news release from the district.

“It’s truly a privilege to have our new name and brand on this exciting new turf facility at the Pocatello High School stadium,” Lookout president and CEO Doug Chambers said in the release.

This project is part of a five-year facilities plan, approved by the board last September. Along with the addition of turf surfaces and improvements to existing bleachers, lights and scoreboards, the board is also exploring options for the addition of portable, seasonal dome field houses — providing year-round sports and community options.

“In essence, the question, ‘How can we maximize PCSD 25 facilities funding to support multiple sports/activities and leverage the most opportunities for student-athletes, as well as the broader community?’ has framed every step of this process,” District Athletic Director Tonya Wilkes said in the release.

Plans to replace field surfaces with turf go beyond Pocatello High, the release reads. Century and Highland high schools will also have their playing surfaces replaced.

“We’re excited to provide learners throughout the district with increased access to top-of-the-line facilities for rehearsals, practices, meets, games and competitions,” Chambers said.

“Sports fields are a place where dreams are made and come true,” he added. “We’re honored to have the Lookout brand associated with the magic that will take place here in the coming years. Go Thunder!”