Newport Central Catholic High School recently inaugurated its new on-campus stadium, the Robert J. Schneider field at the Ciafardini Family Athletic Complex, with a pair of triumphant varsity soccer matches that set a positive tone for the 2026 season. The opening of this facility marks a significant milestone for the school, which has invested five years into creating a state-of-the-art athletic complex.
The girls soccer team was the first to take to the field, achieving a commanding 8-0 victory over Mason County on August 10. This match not only served as the inaugural game at the new stadium but also highlighted the team's strong performance as they began their season. Don Velten, who made history as the first girls soccer coach at Newport Central Catholic, had the honor of presenting the game ball and conducting the opening coin toss, adding a sentimental touch to the event.
Following the girls' success, the boys soccer team continued the winning streak with a 3-2 victory against Simon Kenton on August 11. Matty Wagenlander, a 2003 graduate of NCC and the owner of Punky’s Pixels, which installed the stadium's impressive videoboard, presented the game ball and performed the coin toss for the boys' match. This game further solidified the stadium's role as a new home for NCC athletics, as both teams showcased their skills in front of an enthusiastic crowd.
The girls soccer team is set to host St. Henry on August 15 and Calvary Christian on August 24, both scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Meanwhile, the boys will not return to their new home until August 25, when they face Conner. The excitement surrounding the new stadium is palpable, as it not only serves the soccer teams but will also host the NewCath football team, which is scheduled to play its first regular-season game at the complex on August 21 against Lloyd Memorial, with kickoff set for 7 p.m.
The Ciafardini Family Athletic Complex was dedicated on April 14, 2026, during a ceremony that included a mass and a ribbon-cutting event. The field is named in honor of Robert Schneider, a legendary coach who passed away in 2021. Schneider's legacy at Newport Central Catholic is profound; he won an impressive 345 games from 1966 to 2009 and led the team to state championships in 1984, 2005, and 2006. His contributions to the school extended beyond soccer, as he also coached baseball for nine seasons, leaving an indelible mark on the athletic community.
As Newport Central Catholic continues to celebrate its new facilities, the victories of both the girls and boys soccer teams serve as a promising start to what is hoped to be a successful season. With the support of alumni and the local community, the school looks forward to building on this momentum in the upcoming games.
Leave a Comment