St. Anthony’s Unveils New $1.2M Turf Field

By Andrew Wroblewski

awroblewski@longislandergroup.com

Among those who cut the ribbon at St. Anthony’s High School’s newly-unveiled James C. Metzger Stadium is James C. Metzger; St. Anthony’s Principal Bro. Gary Cregan; Bro. Christopher Thurneau, OSF; Director of Development Don Corrao; Huntington Councilwoman Tracey Edwards; and school administration, lacrosse coaches and members of the varsity lacrosse team. Photo/Ray O’Connor Photography

The $1.2 million James C. Metzger Stadium at St. Anthony’s High School is now open.

The turf playing field, which is located on the southeast lawn of the high school, near the intersection of Pigeon Hill, Wolf Hill and Old Country roads, was unveiled, dedicated and blessed on Saturday.

Plans to construct the facility were revealed last June, with the announcement of James C. Metzger as the benefactor.

Metzger, who school officials have said made a “six-figure” donation toward construction of the facility, is the CEO and chairman of Long Island-based insurance broker The Whitmore Group.

Though Metzger did not attend Saint Anthony’s, he was raised in Dix Hills and frequently played various sports in the parks and fields located near the high school.

Metzger did attend Half Hollows Hills High School East, and later Hofstra University in Hempstead. He was a star lacrosse player at both schools.

St. Anthony’s High School’s new stadium features a turf playing field, low-rise bleachers and an electronic scoreboard. It will be used for practices by school teams, along with day games by both Saint Anthony’s teams and community teams.