By Ventura Breeze Staff –
A proud chapter in St. Bonaventure High School’s rich athletic history was written on Thursday, January 30, as the school held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly resurfaced Netzley Athletic Field. Hosted by the Ventura Chamber of Commerce, the event gathered school leaders, city officials, County and community supporters, student-athletes, and the entire St. Bonaventure student body to celebrate the state-of-the-art playing surface that will benefit generations of Seraph athletes.
Ventura Chamber of Commerce Prsident & CEO Stephanie Caldwell opened the ceremony, welcoming attendees and acknowledging the collaborativee efforts that made the project a reality. She expressed gratitude for the commitment of donors, school leadership, and the wider Ventura community in supporting student-athletes with this vital facility upgrade.
Principal Christina Castro then took the stage to introduce Father Leon and Deacon Huntley, who led a blessing over the field and all those present. Castro also thanked the Chamber’s board members and ambassadors, including Adela Trainor, Susanne Cooper, and Ventura City Councilmember Jim Duran and others, for their presence and continued support.
Councilmember Jim Duran, a St. Bonaventure alumnus, reminisced about playing on the field before the installation of artificial turf, sharing his pride in seeing the facility now transformed into a first-class athletic space for students. He was joined by fellow Councilmember Bill McReynolds.
Ventura County Supervisor Matt LaVere praised St. Bonaventure’s long-standing athletic tradition, stating, “You’ve put Ventura on the map with your outstanding football program,” and emphasized the bigger impact adding, “St. Bonaventure has always been known for its outstanding athletics programs and student-athletes. Keep up the good work!”
Representatives from state leadership recognized the milestone as well, with Taylor Spira from Assemblymember Steve Bennett’s office and Lupe Lopez Garcia from Senator Monique Limón’s office presenting an official certificate in honor of the dedication.
Several key figures from the school and the Archdiocese of Los Angeles were also in attendance, including Michael Ronan, Regional Superintendent of SBPR LA Archdiocese; Jon Mack, Project Manager; Joe Goyenche, Head Football Coach; Raul Camacho, Athletic Director; Brant Hall, Assistant Athletic Director; Patricia Strickland, Director of Development; and Dawn Norkewitz, Director of Events. Additionally, two student representatives from each sport joined in the celebration, reflecting the deep connection between the new field and the young athletes who will benefit from it.
Principal Castro introduced Steve Netzley, Sr., whose son, Steve Netzley, got the project off to a strong start with his generous gift which played a crucial role in funding the resurfacing project. The Netzley family’s continued commitment to St. Bonaventure ensures that current and future athletes will have a top-tier facility in which to train and compete.
At 12:15 p.m., Ventura Chamber representatives Stephanie Caldwell and Ashley Pope led the official ribbon-cutting, signaling the completion of the project and a new chapter for Seraph athletics. To close the celebration, the St. Bonaventure Cheer Team energized the crowd with a spirited performance, bringing the event to an exciting finale.
Guests then enjoyed refreshments provided by Amazing Graze Charcuterie Catering, offering a moment for attendees to connect and celebrate the school’s commitment to student success both on and off the field.
The Netzley Athletic Field resurfacing is more than just an upgrade—it is a testament to the power of community, tradition, and the enduring legacy of excellence at St. Bonaventure High School.
Watch the video highlight here: facebook.com/reel/1306477504114818
Aerial view of the newly resurfaced Netzley Athletic Field at St. Bonaventure High School.
