by Charles Allen (X23)
We will be seeing some exciting technology additions to the Xavier campus this year. You may have already seen the new video boards in the Ron Thillen Gymnasium this past year, which are used for a myriad of events hosted in the gym. For example, during Mass, the prayers and songs are projected onto the board for all in attendance to see. During pep rallies, hype videos and pictures are displayed on the board to raise the energy and excitement within the gym. For athletic events, it’s used as a scoreboard. It has also been used for a movie showing for our elementary school students during Future Saints activities. With endless possibilities, Xavier is excited to announce the addition of three more video boards coming soon to Xavier’s Ken Charipar Baseball Field, Bob Erusha Softball Field and Saints Field.
Currently, Xavier utilizes FairPlay scoreboards, but a switch is being made to the new and improved video board system. Xavier has several reasons for the switch: The first is the aesthetic look the new boards will bring -- the vibrant colors and display content will enhance the atmosphere at various events. Another reason for the switch is due to the age of the current boards and ability to fix them when they have issues. FairPlay was a very popular and recognized brand for scoring. However, the company has diminished and finding technicians and parts for repairs has proven increasingly difficult if not impossible. “The scoreboards were getting old and dying,” said Xavier President Mr. McCarville. The boards have been having clock issues and all-around maintenance problems due to their age.
“We saw it not only as an opportunity to fix the scoreboards, but to also have an opportunity to support the businesses that support Xavier,” stated McCarville. “I am excited for the long-time business supporters to receive even more recognition than they have previously received.” Just as the businesses that have previously supported Xavier received recognition in the past, the new boards will give businesses additional marketing recognition. Xavier will offer six different packages for companies to be a part of which offer different levels of recognition.*
All three boards are on track to be installed for use by the start of the fall season. The baseball and softball fields are scheduled to be installed first, which will be prior to their 2023 season. The dimensions of the boards are very similar to the current boards already installed. Ken Charipar Baseball Field will be similar in size to the current board. Bob Erusha Softball Field and Saints Field will see larger boards than currently installed. The goals for the boards are very straightforward. Not only will they enhance each and every facility, but also to generate revenue for the Xavier Foundation to continue to make upgrades to Xavier, and promote different causes (such as this current year’s cause to raise Xavier Catholic Schools teachers’ salaries).
Reserve your recognition of support spot today! Packages will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. You can contact the Xavier Foundation to reserve your recognition of support at development@xavierfoundation.org or 319.378.4571.
Learn more about the Xavier Video Board Initiative: XavierSaints.org/Business.