Ormond Stadium at West Aurora

Share this article:
Ormond family members pose for a photo after dedication of Ormond Stadium at West Aurora School Thursday, Sept. 15. Al Benson/The Voice

Honoring Aurora’s Ormond family for three generations of service over 80 years, West Aurora School District 129 dedicated Ormond Stadium at West Aurora High School Thursday, Sept. 15.

West Aurora’s a capella choir opened the ceremony outdoors on Ken Zimmerman Field at the stadium with the alma mater.

Neal Ormond III of Aurora offers remarks at the Ormond Stadium dedication ceremony at West Aurora High School Thursday, Sept. 15. Al Benson/The Voice
Emmary DeSwardt, left, 16 months old, poses with grandpa Neal Ormond III after dedication of Ormond Stadium at West Aurora High School Thursday, Sept. 15. Emmary, the daughter of Bennie and Chrissy Ormond DeSwardt of Aurora, will be the Class of 2039 at West Aurora. Al Benson/The Voice

Jason Buckley, West Aurora’s athletic director, welcomed the crowd that packed the stands.

Blackhawk Sports Boosters president Rhonda Mont offered remarks on behalf of the Boosters.

Jeff Craig, West Aurora School District 129 superintendent of schools, reflected on the Ormond family’s past and present contributions.

Rich Kerns, District 129 School Board president, gave dedication remarks.

On behalf of the Ormond family, Neal Ormond III, thanked school officials for the dedication ceremony. Ormond, 81, a 1958 West Aurora alum, is the radio voice of the basketball Blackhawks at West High.

A volunteer assistant coach for West softball and girls basketball teams, he previously assisted cross country and track teams and served on the District 129 School Board, including as president.

—Al Benson

Leave a Reply