Spectators won’t have to pay to watch Kennett’s Blue Demons play their first home football game played under the lights. The Kennett Consolidated School District (KCSD) is offering free admission to celebrate the season opener against Avon Grove being played under new stadium lighting on Aug. 30. 

“This is a celebration and we would like to invite the entire Kennett community to join us,” said Dr. Barry Tomasetti, superintendent. 

The Demon Lights Committee has raised $225,000 for metal halide lamps that will shine onto the field from 70-foot poles, which will be celebrated during the “White Out” game.  The first 500 attendees will receive white T-shirts, and the gates will open at 6 p.m., said Jeff Thomas, KHS athletic director.  “We chose white because it represents light,” explained Jeff Roland, committee member. 

“We are excited that the lights on the athletic field will benefit the band and the football, lacrosse, field hockey and soccer teams.  Each team will play five night games each year, which will allow the children’s parents to attend games as spectators,” said Dr. Tomasetti.

Barbara Nash, Demon Lights Committee member, envisions other benefits from the lights that include the District hosting play-off games and band competitions, businesses increasing revenues from patrons stopping in after games, and Kennett Square developing a greater sense of community when residents attend games together.”

For all that has been done, Dr. Tomasetti said, “We are extremely thankful to the Demon Lights Committee, our community members and business partners for their contributions in making our stadium lights a reality.” 

Committee members include: Jeff and Cathy Roland, Jim and Barbara Nash, Pam Ramagano, Carl and Carol Lowe, Mike Fragale, Joe Sexton, Heather Schaen, and Mike Finnegan.

Roland and Nash thanked everyone who donated time and money.  “People gave what they could during the economic recovery.  Whether it was $5 or $10,000, it all helped,” he said.

They appreciated the community supporting the carnival, which raised $10,000. The committee gave special thanks to the following donors:  DIVER, Chester County Technical College High School, Genesis Healthcare, BeDriven, Southern Chester County Soccer Association, The Mushroom Council, and Seasons Pizza.

One last fundraiser is planned to cover remaining costs. The Demon Lights Committee is seeking volunteers to hand out wristbands at the Mushroom Festival.  To volunteer, email: [email protected].