It was never a pleasant task to unfurl the old wooden bleachers at North Rockford Middle School (NRMS). The bleachers have seemingly been at the site of the old Rockford High School since the building opened up. It is a task that has gotten progressively more difficult as the wood and accompanying hardware aged together. The maintenance staff and other school personnel have put in a yeoman’s effort in keeping the equipment functional. But those days are thankfully over according to Rockford athletic director Tim Erickson.
“That was sometimes a major undertaking just getting those things to work properly,” said Erickson. “The new plastic bleachers that were installed will make it easier for everyone concerned. It is like night and day and the students, staff and community will benefit greatly with this particular improvement.”
The new bleachers are another added bonus to favorable interest rates from a successful millage issue that enabled the district to improve building and athletic facilities over the last several years. The improvements to the weight room at the high school were another add on.
“It got to the point where we almost dreaded having to open the bleachers,” said NRMS Athletic Director Kevin O’Rourke. “We have some great people here who have pulled out every trick they could to keep them functional and safe, but this was something that was long overdue. They are a most welcome addition.”
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