A pre-game ceremony is scheduled to start at 6:30 p.m.
A $3 million state grant paid for the new, multi-purpose field and track. A field house and baseball field next door was paid for through a private donor, Joan Payden (President/CEO/Founder of Payden & Rygel.
Click the video above for more information and to get a look at the new complex.
“Thanks to bond funds from the state of Connecticut and a private donation from Ms. Joan Payden (President/CEO/Founder of Payden & Rygel), the Leo F. Ryan Sports Complex/DeFilippo Field has received a complete makeover with the addition of a multi-sport turf field, running track, bleachers and press box,” the school district said in a statement Thursday.
The dedication ceremony before the game will feature two former Derby High School students — Silvio “Foggy” Nero ‘42 and Catherine Kelleher ’46.
The pair will participate in the opening coin toss.
“I’m honored to be a part of what will be a historic night in Derby’s history. It’s difficult to appreciate just how amazing our new sports complex is until you see it in person with your own eyes,” Derby Mayor Rich Dziekan said in a prepared statement.
“On Friday we will be welcoming back one of Derby’s sons and one of her daughters to participate in the opening ceremony coin toss,” said Keith McLiverty, the city’s treasurer and the chairman of the committee that oversaw the new football field.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the J. R. Payden Field House and Payden Park is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 12.
