21-03-2025
Greenville rebuilds beloved stadium after 2024 tornado
DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) — Harmon Field at Greenville High School was left in pieces after a tornado ripped through the area, but nearly a year later, the stadium is making a comeback.
In May 2024, the community was in shock to find Harmon Field completely torn up by a tornado. The storm ravaged the field, press box and bleachers, leaving the entire stadium with major damage.
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'It was a tremendous struggle last year, getting things going,' said Doug Fries, Greenville City Schools superintendent.
Fast forward to today and a brand new field now graces the stadium, with a new press box and bleachers as well.
'We're also going to be adding another ticket booth, an entrance way and some new fencing,' said Fries.
Even with the new additions, the memories will forever be attached to the beloved stadium.
'One of my all time favorite plays happened, running down the sideline,' said Aaron Shaffer, Greenville City Schools athletic director. 'One of our kids made a great play at the end of the game. It ended up being a one point win.'
Shaffer used to put on the helmet for the Green Wave, as well as coached the team before he took the role of athletic director. He says the additions will only increase the school's prestige.
'Our facilities will be second to none for a school our size, with our stadium, our press box, new lights, new turf,' said Shaffer.
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Residents are also looking forward to the new look, while holding onto memories of their own.
'My sisters and brothers, when we'd walk up the ramp and then we climb over the rail and jump in the snow drift,' said Janice Mills, Greenville resident.
Millis is an alumnus of Greenville High School who says that she is looking forward to returning to the stadium she calls a second home.
'After they cleaned it all up, it looks so different,' said Mills. 'But I guess everything's going to be back to something better.'
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