By Anne Marie Amacher
The Catholic Messenger
DAVENPORT —Alumni and supporters of Assumption High School and St. Ambrose University were greeted by music from the combined marching bands of both schools at the dedication of the St. Vincent Athletic Complex on Sept. 30.
Bishop Martin Amos blessed phase one of the complex, which includes a softball field and two multi-purpose fields used for soccer, lacrosse and practice football, and a concession stand, restroom and storage building, along with parking for 127 vehicles. Total cost was $6.5 million. Work began in May 2015 and was completed in May 2016.
Sister Joan Lescinski, CSJ, president of St. Ambrose University, thanked the bands for their music and collaboration as they moved into place on the field behind the speakers. She noted that the event was also homecoming for St. Ambrose and Assumption.
Also in attendance were representatives from the city of Davenport; Don Doucette, chancellor of Eastern Iowa Community College, Bettie Truitt, president of Black Hawk College, Moline, Ill.; and members of Bush Construction and Daven-port Electric Contract.
“As you know, these facilities were created through the combined efforts of St. Ambrose University and Assumption High School — two longtime diocesan partners in Catholic education. Considering the shared histories of our schools and the proximity of the St. Vincent Center to both of our campuses, this is natural ‘team’ collaboration,” Sr. Lescinski said.
Assumption High School President Andy Craig noted that St. Ambrose Academy and Immaculate Conception joined to create Assump-tion in 1958. He said Assumption prepares students academically and spiritually and in athletics. “This has been a culmination of a partnership that has led to a lot of teamwork.”
Bishop Amos led those in attendance in prayer. “Now we ask your blessing upon this athletic complex,” Bishop Amos prayed. “The psalmist declares that ‘my feet you make swift as the deer’s.’ Lord, let our players not grow weary as they press on toward every goal. Let your saving help give them the joy of victory and the learning that comes from losses. Grant that all who come here for practice and competition may find welcome and joy in teamwork and friendship. Keep coaches, players, officials and spectators safe from harm and injury and guide them in all they do….”
Students, athletic directors, parents and supporters from both schools read prayer petitions.
Sr. Lescinski then spoke about what it will take to complete the entire project. The next phase of the multi-phase endeavor will include construction of an outdoor track, a competition area for field events, and a football field and visitor stand on the western part of the complex, close to Assumption. No timetable has been established for that phase. Additional phases include seating/ bleachers for the football field, concession stands, lockers and parking.
The combined marching bands played their fight songs to end the program.
“Go Bees! Go Knights! Happy homecoming to all,” Sr. Lescinski concluded.