News Summary

Parkersburg High School proudly opened a new locker room for its cross country team on August 11, 2025. This landmark project signifies years of community effort and support, providing athletes with a dedicated space featuring lockers, a recovery room, and facilities that foster teamwork and pride. The completed locker room stands as a tribute to the legacy of the school’s cross country program and the contributions of alumni and community members who made it possible.

Parkersburg High School Celebrates New Locker Room for Cross Country Team

Parkersburg has been buzzing with excitement ever since the local high school unveiled a brand new locker room for its beloved cross country team. On August 11, 2025, festivities took place at the Mary Lou Hague Annex, marking a significant day for both current students and alumni alike. After a long five-year journey, the dream of a dedicated locker room became a reality, thanks to the unwavering support from the Big Reds community.

Official Opening by a Proud Alumnus

The official ribbon-cutting was led by George Angelos, who not only serves as the head cross country coach but is also an alumnus of Parkersburg High School, affectionately known as a “Big Red.” This milestone represents more than just a building; it’s a symbol of pride and belonging for the athletes who dedicate their time and effort to the sport.

A Welcome Change from the Past

For years, the cross country athletes were left to make do with an abandoned room that hardly met their needs. Now, they have a brand new facility boasting separate areas for boys and girls, each section equipped with two dozen spacious lockers. This new setup is designed not only for storage but to create a sense of community among the team members, fostering friendships and team spirit.

Honoring History and Achievements

The locker room also pays homage to the rich history of the PHS cross country program, which has been thriving since its inception back in 1970 under the guidance of the founding coach Gary Prater, who was present at the opening ceremony. The facility walls are adorned with pictures of former and current collegiate Big Reds, serving as a constant reminder of the legacy and impressive accomplishments of the cross country team.

Community Support Makes Dreams Come True

The completion of the locker room could not have been possible without the support and generosity of former Big Reds and dedicated community members. Numerous donations and sponsorships poured in, showing the strength of unity, collaboration, and love for the sport. Key figureheads like Emily Flanagan, Scotty Barker, and Benjamin Lake were pivotal to this effort, along with numerous local businesses that jumped in to lend a hand.

Resourcefulness and Creativity Shine Through

A shout-out is owed to Kaleb Lawrence from Wood County schools, who lent essential resources to ensure the project’s success. Additionally, Ryan Taylor from Pickering & Associates offered his design expertise pro bono, laying the groundwork for what would become a spectacular addition to the school.

Community Hands at Work

The community’s hard work truly shines through with the countless volunteer hours dedicated to making this project a success. One standout contribution came from IUPAT Local 1144, who donated over 100 hours of painting to transform the space into a vibrant and inviting environment.

Additional Features and Future Aspirations

Among the fantastic amenities in the new locker room is a state-of-the-art recovery room that includes a hydration station and bicycles, funded by graduating classes from 2015 to 2022. This addition is a testament to the school’s commitment to the well-being of its athletes. Moreover, the PHS cross country program promotes a culture based on four C’s: character, care, cohesion, and consistency, steering them toward success both on and off the track.

Continuing to Build towards the Future

Current teams are making waves, ranked fourth in Class AAAA for both boys and girls according to experts in the field. Looking forward, the dreams do not stop here; there are aspirations for adding a weight room to further enhance this already impressive facility. This new space is not merely a locker room but a commitment to paying it forward, acknowledging how significant cross country has been in shaping lives and creating community.

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