Last week, Save Our Stadium (SOS) representatives met with Knoxville School Superintendent Cassi Pearson, business manager Craig Mobley, and representatives from the City of Knoxville about the future of Ken Locke Stadium.

Pennie Sommar, co-chairman of the SOS committee tells KNIA/KRLS News the group expressed their interest in continuing SOS efforts to renovate the stadium and their plans for it to be used as a multi-purpose facility for athletics and community events and activities. 

Sommar said according to Pearson, the school does not have funds to invest into Ken Locke Stadium. Their focus is on Northstar Elementary. Pearson said that football will be played at Ken Locke Stadium this year; however, the school’s thought is to have all athletics played at the best facilities that they have.

SOS is moving forward with plans to Save Our Stadium. SOS has started to work with an engineer to review our design plans that were developed and put on hold for the new middle school bond vote and eventual construction. Sommar said they will hire a consulting firm to update designs. Once the design and fundraising plans are laid out, SOS will present them to the School Board for their official support of their efforts.

Sommar thanked everyone for their patience and support as they have tirelessly advocated for Ken Locke Stadium, and the community. A crowd of around 50 showed up at the SOS Meeting Monday.

How can you help? 

– Sign up for a committee and be ready to be called into action.

– Consider a financial gift to SOS. 

– Spread the word about their efforts of your friends, family, classmates, etc. Reach out to us via FB messenger if you know of an individual or organization that may have an interest in giving a sizeable gift to SOS. 

Thank you, everyone, for your patience and support as we’ve tirelessly advocated for you, for Ken Locke Stadium, and our beloved community.