DE PERE — In 2018 a West De Pere school district referendum put millions of dollars on the ballot for improvements to their facilities.
Voters approved $64.8 million to improve academic facilities at several district schools. The $9.9 million improvement to the athletic facilities passed by a slim margin.
Fast forward to the 2022 season and the Phantoms have settled in to their new home.
Stadium improvements including expanded bleachers, improvements to the track, restrooms, concessions, and more were just the beginning.
The crown jewel of the project is an indoor multi-purpose turf field and practice facility.
Phantoms head football coach Chris Greisen said that having an indoor football field to practice on is a luxury that few Wisconsin high schools have.
Greisen said only Kaukauna and Kimberly have facilities like this in northeast Wisconsin.
The new additions including a weight room expansion have helped turn single season sports programs into a year round team.
Harsh Wisconsin weather or summer break doesn't stop the training for these student athletes anymore.
Larger and more modern facilities have also helped large teams like the football program practice and work out together instead of splitting up.
Greisen said that this has helped build camaraderie and create a winning culture with the team.
