News Summary Fort Lauderdale High and Stranahan High football teams are set to return to Chase Stadium for their home games. Following community feedback over the less favorable Dillard High location, the Broward School Board has arranged for the teams to finish the season at Baptist Health Community Field. This move has been met with enthusiasm from players, parents, and fans, who look forward to a supportive and vibrant game environment. The return highlights ongoing concerns about adequate sports facilities for high schools in the area. Fort Lauderdale Welcomes Back High School Football Teams to Chase Stadium! In an exciting turn of events for sports fans in Fort Lauderdale, the Broward School Board has decided to bring the Fort Lauderdale High and Stranahan High football teams back to their rightful home at the stunning Baptist Health Community Field at Chase Stadium. This delightful announcement follows some community outcry over the teams being relocated to Dillard High for their home games—a change that many found less than ideal. The Shift Back to Chase Stadium Under a new agreement, the school board will cover a total of $41,500, allowing both high schools to finish their remaining home games at Chase Stadium, which is currently home to the Inter Miami CF, a Major League Soccer team co-owned by the famous David Beckham. Fort Lauderdale High will kick off at Chase Stadium on September 25 against Cooper City High, while Stranahan High will have its first game there on October 3 against South Plantation High. Getting Back to Where They Belong Previously, both teams had been playing their home games at Dillard High, but many parents and coaches voiced their dissatisfaction with the situation. Reports indicated a general feeling of frustration as key stakeholders were kept in the dark about the move to Dillard until this summer. Parents, coaches, and fans noticed a decline in attendance, indicating that support for the teams wasn’t as vibrant as it had been in previous seasons. Head coach for Fort Lauderdale High, Richard Dunbar, was particularly vocal about the less-than-ideal conditions at Dillard High, mentioning logistical issues and conflicts with staff. As a result, the decision to return to Chase Stadium was met with relief from many in the community. What Happened at Dillard High? The overall arrangement to use Dillard High’s stadium stemmed from a $1.5 million renovation, which included the addition of artificial turf. However, this decision led to multiple complications for both schools in terms of finances, as they now needed to shoulder expenses related to custodial services, gate personnel, security, and more. It’s been a rough season for some players and families alike. Responses from the school board indicated a need to seriously examine long-term solutions for the seven other schools in Broward County that are also without proper stadiums. Community leaders pointed out the pressing issue: it’s simply unacceptable that schools lack facilities to support their athletic teams. Where Are All the Facilities? Among the schools affected are Plantation High, Hollywood Hills, West Broward, J.P. Taravella, and Monarch High, all of which need proper venues to host games. Notably, Broward County holds the distinction of having the most alumni in the NFL, boasting 48 players on rosters as the season kicks off—proof that high school football is serious business in this area. A Community United With strong feelings echoing throughout the community, there’s a clear push for improved facilities that would not only enhance school spirit but also provide greater support for our student-athletes. The return to Chase Stadium symbolizes not just a venue change but a reminder of the community’s desire to foster an environment where young athletes can flourish. As both Fort Lauderdale High and Stranahan High gear up for their upcoming games, one thing is certain: excitement is in the air. Families, students, and local fans are ready to cheer them on in a location that feels like home once more. Here’s to a great season! 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