The restored Mt. Diablo High School football field with new logo. Photo: MDUSD
Fire started by illegal fireworks melted artificial turf
By Mt. Diablo Unified School District
The Mt. Diablo High School football team played its latest home game on a fully restored home field that has been returned to its previous state-of-the-art condition less than two months after a destructive fire that was started by illegal fireworks melted the artificial turf, forcing the Red Devils to play their first three home games off site.
The team and Mt. Diablo Unified School District are deeply grateful to the Las Vegas Raiders, who pledged a donation of $250,000 to assist with the cost of restoring the field, after learning of the fire and needed repairs.
“As a lifelong Raiders fan and past season ticket holder, I couldn’t be more pleased with their generous contribution,” said MDUSD Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark. “The Mt. Diablo High School student body, alumni and community deserve a learning environment that they can be proud of. With the help of Mark Davis, owner of the Raiders, we have restored the field to its original state!”
Although the turf was repaired last month, the Mt. Diablo High School logo was installed more recently this month, because it had to be special-ordered. Since that installation, the team has played several “away” games.
The team was excited to play on its completely restored home field for its “Homecoming” game on Friday, Oct. 31, as it hosted cross-town MDUSD competitors, the Ygnacio Valley High School Wolves.
The Raiders’ donation will cover the cost of the insurance deductible, which the District would have had to pay out of its own funds toward the total repair costs of nearly $350,000.
Mt. Diablo High School is located at 2450 Grant Street in Concord, CA.
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