A ribbon‑cutting ceremony last week marked the inauguration of a new soccer practice facility at Pueblo Central High School, where coach TJ Thiebaut and Superintendent Barbara Kimzey joined families, alumni and local officials to celebrate the milestone. The event highlighted the collaborative spirit that made the project possible and drew cheers from students and community members alike.
A $1.3 Million Investment in Local Soccer
The facility, built directly adjacent to the school, features a high‑quality turf surface, regulation‑size goals and a custom Wildcat‑embroidered logo that reflects school pride. The $1.3 million price tag was covered through a blend of private donations, contributions from the mayor’s office, the Urban Renewal Authority, the Central Foundation and the Education Foundation, underscoring broad-based support for youth athletics.
Beyond the school’s varsity and junior‑varsity squads, the field will be open to youth soccer programs ranging from preschool through eighth grade, as well as to other sports and community events. This multi‑use approach ensures that the investment benefits a wide spectrum of participants across Pueblo and the neighboring Bessemer neighborhood.
Local leaders praised the project as a model of public‑private partnership, noting that the involvement of the Urban Renewal Authority and the Central Foundation amplified the impact of private philanthropy. By providing a modern, safe venue for soccer and other activities, the facility is expected to foster healthier lifestyles and strengthen community ties for years to come.