The University of Maine at Fort Kent recently dedicated its newly lit soccer field, the Michael Simon Field.
The public is welcome at 4 p.m. on Friday, Sept 22, for a special event at the yield. This will kick off UMFK’s Homecoming Weekend, and will feature the Fort Kent Community High School Warriors playing a double-header. The first game starts at 5 p.m.
Festivities will include activities to suit all ages and interests. There will be inflatable bouncy houses and obstacle courses, field games, and a quiet play area will be available for children and the young-at-heart.
The public is encouraged to attend and the first 300 people that check into the event will receive $10 food truck vouchers.
Lighting the UMFK soccer field has been a top UMFK capital priority for years. Michael’s brother, Jamil, funded the project in memory of his late brother Michael Simon, and the field has been renamed for Michael Simon. Michael, who passed away last June, was beloved on the UMFK campus and in town, and was a Fort Kent resident for almost 40 years.
The “Light the Field” event is an opportunity to remember Michael and celebrate the caring bond between him, UMFK and Fort Kent at large. The official dedication will take place during halftime. UMFK’s soccer teams will take the field along with Athletic Director Carly Flowers, UMFK President Deb Hedeen, and UMFK Foundation President Stephanie Chick to raise a toast to Michael Simon. In honor of Michael’s love of the color red and Diet Coke, giveaways will feature Diet Coke, red drink koozies and cups as well as many glow-in-the-dark and light-up toys.
UMFK celebrates having lights for the first time on the Michael Simon Field.
For information regarding the dedication and to register for UMFK Homecoming events, please go to https://www.umfk.edu/alumni/homecoming/ or call Shannon Lugdon at 207-834-7800.
