The Athletic Program at St. Petersburg Catholic High School is a part of its mission to form young men and women in spirit, mind and body for leadership and service. To strengthen this program, the school has just invested $1.5 million dollars to renovate its athletic facilities. On October 26, 2021, students, staff, and supporters gathered for a blessing and dedication ceremony to celebrate the completion of this six-month project. The school community is rejoicing, especially all the female athletes who now have their own locker rooms.

“It’s very much needed and it’s nice to know that you are supported playing your sport and are supported in your faith,” said Nichole Adkins, who plays basketball, volleyball and softball for the Barons.

The renovation included resurfacing a six-lane track and extensive enhancements to the locker room facilities. While the space formerly had a single women’s locker room and a single men’s locker room, it now has a large field locker room that will be utilized by men and women’s soccer, men and women’s lacrosse, and football. In addition, there is a guest locker room that will also be utilized for physical education classes. Lastly, there is a separate women’s locker room for volleyball and basketball and a men’s basketball locker room.

Courageously living your faith can be a challenge in a broken world, especially for young teenage Catholics. That’s why the Athletic Program infuses faith into all aspects of the program. All the teams start and end each game with prayer led by student leaders. They frequent the sacraments and participate in the celebration of Mass together before games.

Supporting students through their faith journey in high school is important to teachers and staff of the school, including Athletic Director Nick Vandewalle.

“Because of what our athletes do, they’re automatically role models. It’s very important for them to live their faith. We encourage them not to hide their faith but to be very proud of it and live their faith not just in name but in everything that they do.”

High school principal, Ross Bubolz, says the school encourages all students to use the gifts God has given them.

“Through sports, our students witness to God by sharing their talents, kneeling down in prayer and showing others that they recognize God’s hand at work. God has provided us the opportunities and given us the talents to cooperate with Him and use those gifts and talents in His service and honor.”

The renovations and the school spirit they are fostering were made possible by benefactors of the Baron community. The Diocese of St. Petersburg and Patrick and Toni Walsh made lead gifts on the project, inspiring significant contributions from Jane L. Ferguson, Robin Link, Susan Mittermayr, Tim McFadden, Wade and Ashley Brown, Dr. and Mrs. Carlos A. Labrador.