Nelson Field shines bright at night for the first time in history in Bellaire

BELLAIRE, Ohio (WTRF) – It’s the night residents in one local community have been waiting for.

The Bellaire Big Reds held their annual Meet the Team Night, and for the first time ever, fans were able to see Nelson Field under the lights.

Once all of the fall sports teams, coaches and band members were introduced, the large crowd on hand was treated to quite the show.

“I think it’s wonderful we have everyone out here. It’s nice all the lights are on. It’s bright out here. It’s great to see everyone. I think it’s going to be a great season.”

Riley Robbins – Bellaire Football Player

“Everyone in the crowd was so excited. It was a great time to experience something new. I think the season is going to be great.”

Makayla Pettigrew – Bellaire Cheerleader

“I’m excited. It’s so exciting because we never had lights before. It’s going to be new for us and for us to be the 1st to experience it is just so exciting.”

Adrianna Leigh – Bellaire Cheerleader

For nearly a century, a Saturday afternoon football tradition at what was once referred to as “sun-drenched Nelson Field” has officially come to an end.

With the season now starting in mid-August, heat was becoming an issue during the games.

For that reason, among others, the decision was made to install lights just in time for the start of this season.

Once the lights came on, the band performed several songs while the football team held an informal workout.

The first game under the lights will be Friday, August 23rd when the Big Reds take on Buckeye Local.

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