Press Box Slated for a Facelift 

By Kannon Reed

At Pen Argyl Area High School, changes are underway that aim to improve the experience for athletes, coaches, and fans alike. Plans to renovate the stadium’s press box are moving forward, giving one of the school’s most important athletic facilities a long-awaited upgrade after being discussed for more than 15 years.

Located at Alumni Stadium, the press box plays a key role during games, housing announcers, coaches, media personnel, and scoreboard operations. As Pen Argyl athletics continue to grow, updates to this space are helping the school keep up with modern expectations and improve overall functionality.

According to Athletic Director Tim Egan, the project is currently in the design phase. The renovation will include improved drainage around the structure and upgraded accessibility, including handicap access into the press box. Plans also call for waterproofing and renovating the existing lower level, along with the addition of a second level. This new level will allow viewing of both the football field and the baseball/field hockey fields, expanding its usefulness across multiple sports.

“The goal is to provide safe, private, accessible, climate-controlled spaces for coaches, media, and game workers,” Egan said. He also noted the importance of protecting the school’s scoreboard electronics, which are housed in the press box and must remain moisture free.

Announcer Rich Hannick also believes the renovations are an important step forward for Pen Argyl athletics. Hannick said the updated press box will improve visibility and comfort during games, which he believes could lead to more accurate and energetic announcing. He also noted that the modernized facility will improve the overall game-day atmosphere at Alumni Stadium.

“When teams come to ‘The Hill’ and they look up there has to be some intimidation,” Hannick said. “Adding a state of the art press box to that scene will only add to the allure of Alumni Stadium on game day.”

While an exact cost has not yet been determined, it will be finalized after the design is approved and the bidding process is completed.

If everything stays on track, committees hope to finalize the design by late spring or early summer, collect bids, and begin construction in November or December following the 2026 football season.

Like any large project, there will be challenges, but Egan is confident in the support behind it.

“There are always challenges associated with facility projects,” he said, “but our committee and board members understand these improvements must be made and will support the project.”

Beyond just structural upgrades, the renovation represents a larger investment in Pen Argyl athletics. Egan compared the project to recent improvements such as the stadium, track, and Alumni Wall, saying these upgrades demonstrate pride in the school and community. With a new two-level press box, he expects increased media coverage not only for football, but also for field hockey and baseball.

As work continues, students and fans can look forward to a modernized facility that supports the excitement and tradition of Green Knight athletics. The upgraded press box is expected to serve the school for years to come, enhancing both game-day operations and the overall experience for everyone involved.