Franklin High School’s football team finally stepped onto its own renovated Pit field in late July, ending a stretch that had seen the players commute to distant facilities for practice and away games.
The recent overhaul replaced the old natural grass with a modern synthetic surface, eliminating the 30‑minute bus ride to Western Carolina and cutting the upkeep that had long plagued the program while also improving footing and reducing wear and tear on the field.
A New Chapter for Franklin Football
Coach Josh Brooks described the moment as more than a cosmetic upgrade, saying the new surface restores a sense of belonging that has defined the program for generations.
Anderson Terrell, a senior who grew up watching the field’s legacy, called it “home” and noted how the modernized turf honors the school’s history while providing a safer environment for today’s athletes.
Garrett Young added that the improved footing will let the team focus on execution rather than worrying about uneven ground, a benefit that will show up immediately in practices and games.
The Panthers’ first home game at the Pit is scheduled for August 28 against Robbinsville, a matchup that organizers hope will draw new fans and rekindle community support for the program.
Beyond the immediate competitive edge, the renovation symbolizes a broader effort to invest in the school’s athletic identity, with administrators emphasizing that the field will remain a central gathering point for alumni, families and local supporters.