The LBCC football team is moving its home games to St. Anthony High School’s Athletic Complex this season as Veterans Memorial Stadium is demolished to make way for a new athletic complex.
Although the team is playing its home games just five minutes away, practices have been relocated to LBCC’s soccer field.
Adjusting to a different field and environment has taken time as the team adapts to the new surroundings and playing conditions.
Sophomore running back Khalil Warren said the team has had to make adjustments since the team has begun practicing on the soccer field.
“The biggest adjustment was basically having to get used to the soccer field. It’s kind of similar to the football [field], but a bit smaller,” Warren said.
The new athletic complex is expected to be completed in 2029 as part of a $250 million project that will include a kinesiology lab, an aquatic center, baseball and softball fields.
The Vikings have played at Veterans Memorial Stadium for nearly four decades after LBCC purchased the property from the City of Long Beach for $1 in 1987.
Once completed, the new athletic complex will provide a more modern environment for sporting events, graduations and other gatherings traditionally held at Veterans Memorial Stadium.
Players have expressed mixed emotions about not being able to play at Veterans Memorial Stadium this season.
Freshman quarterback Savaleio Niumata said he is ready to play regardless of whether the team’s home field is at St. Anthony High School or Veterans Memorial Stadium.
“I would say I’m okay with it. I’d prefer to play here, but I’m more than grateful to still have somewhere to play near home,” Niumata said.
In contrast to Niumata’s acceptance of the change, defensive back Bryce Morgan shared his struggle to adjust.
“Playing at the stadium, the fans, the atmosphere, how loud it got, and how many people were there. I’m going to miss that for sure,” Morgan said.
Despite the mixed emotions, the Vikings are still ready to compete for the 2026-2027 season. They remain determined to adjust and stay motivated going forward.
You must be logged in to post a comment.