Harrington Field to be dedicated Saturday

The formal dedication of the new Harrington Field on the south campus of Western Washington University takes place Saturday, Sept. 27, between games involving the Viking men's and women's soccer teams.

The ceremony is scheduled to begin at 6:40 p.m. The WWU women entertain Western Oregon University at 4 p.m. and the Viking men host Montana State University Billings at 7:20 p.m. Admission is free.

The project was made possible in part because of a $1 million gift from WWU alumnus Scott Harrington and his family. Harrington graduated in 1998 from Western's accounting program and played soccer for the Vikings.

The field is formally known as the Robert S. Harrington Field in honor of Scott's father, the late Robert Harrington, in recognition of the family's gift.

WWU director of athletics Steve Card will serve as master of ceremonies. Speakers will be WWU President Bruce Shepard, WWU Associated Student Body President Annika Wolters, and Scott Harrington.

At 6 p.m., WWU soccer scarves will be handed out to 500 students at the Wade King Recreation Center Flag Plaza. From there students along with cheerleaders and the WWU Viking band will "March to the Match" for the field dedication and game following.

The facility has an all-weather Astro Turf surface, bleacher seating for 500, and lighting for night use. It has allowed WWU to have soccer games on campus for the first time since 2000.