September 2, 2006 Source: :
http://announcements.usask.ca/news/archive/2006/09/u_of_s_rededica_1.html U of S re-dedicates upgraded Griffiths Stadium in PotashCorp Park U of S re-dedicates upgraded
Griffiths Stadium in PotashCorp Park University of Saskatchewan President Peter MacKinnon, members of the Griffiths family, and major donors to the University of Saskatchewan today took part in a rededication ceremony at the official re-opening of the upgraded Griffiths Stadium in PotashCorp Park. Just before the start of the Huskies football opening game between U of S Huskies and U of A Golden Bears, MacKinnon and Joe Griffiths' two daughters, Betty Cameron from Calgary and Pat Dryden from Mississauga, cut the ribbon to officially rededicate the Griffiths Stadium in PotashCorp Park. Addressing a crowd of over 3,000 supporters, MacKinnon said: "I would like to acknowledge the recent contributions of PotashCorp, Ron and Jane Graham, and CJVR/CK750, whose support made the latest upgrades to Griffiths Stadium possible. Their generosity, along with the contributions of the PotashCorp Vanier Cup Host Committee, will enhance our campus and community sports programs, and help attract high profile events to our city. "I am also deeply honoured that the family of the Stadium's namesake, Joe Griffiths, has travelled across Canada to be with us today. Joe was a mentor and friend to thousands of athletes and students from 1919 until his retirement in 1951, and his legacy continues to benefit the campus and community." On behalf of the Griffiths family, Betty Cameron said: "When the idea for a proper stadium was conceived, the plans were drafted on the floor of Joe's office in Qu'Appelle Hall. They were grand but not nearly as grand as the newly renovated stadium. Whenever Joe needed something the University couldn't afford, he went to his friends in the community. How proud he would be of this wonderful facility and equally proud that again the community has provided funds for the upgrading of Griffiths Stadium and that it will be the site of the 2006 Vanier Cup. When the original site was named Griffiths Stadium he was flabbergasted, never expecting such an honour." The upgraded look for Griffiths stadium now includes a new team building, washroom and concession building and expanded seating on the east side of the Stadium, renovations to existing team and classroom/office space, new javelin, shot put and discus areas, installation of artificial turf and field lighting, expansion of the media boxes, and construction of an enhanced entrance gate. To recognize PotashCorp's long-standing relationship with the University, its outstanding leadership and community support, the U of S earlier this year named the sports precinct on the south side of College Drive, PotashCorp Park. Griffiths Stadium, along with the adjacent fields used by Campus Recreation and other groups, are included in the Park. -30- For more information, contact: Peter MacKinnon
President
University of Saskatchewan
Tel: (306) 966-6620
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