What's new with the field?
On October 27th, 2023, the field along Fillmore Street, outside of King Theater, was officially named Strickler Field in honor of the alum Anne Cooke Strickler (Class of 1949). During Anne’s time here she was affectionately nicknamed Washie and was an active community member participating in the Glee Club, Dance Committee, and Tennis Group, along with being on the Athletic Board and serving as Captain of the Hockey team. She often played field hockey on the very field that is now named after her. At the dedication ceremony, her husband, Al Strickler Jr., fondly recalled visiting her in the Gibbs Reception room when Stuart Hall was an all-female school. The dedication ceremony was attended by members of the Alumni Council, Board members, administration team, parents, and students. Anne’s younger sister, Mary Cooke Harrison, who also attended STU, along with Mary's two children came to honor Anne. The family was even able to watch current students use the newly renovated field during red/white games from the Arcade windows. The new improvements and facilities that were generously provided include the following:
Cleaned, patched, and resurfaced basketball court, including acid washing, repainting, and applying game paint for basketball, short-court tennis, and pickleball
A Gaga ball pit for an additional game area
New cornhole boards
Pickleball supplies, playground balls (for kickball), dodgeballs for dodgeball or gaga ball, outdoor basketballs, bean bag sets for cornhole, tennis rackets, tennis balls, bases for kickball, jump ropes, frisbees, volleyballs, and a new storage bin
Landscaping for the wall against the side of the building (near the King Theater hallway) and along the fence
Sun-sails for increased shading
Seating with both benches and a picnic table
Ms. Datz spoke about the project, citing the following goals: Improving the usefulness and visual appeal of the field for current and future students, creating a facility that reflects the interest in athletics and physical activity of Anne Strickler, and making it possible for students to do a variety of activities at one time. Many students have had a chance to reap the benefit of these goals coming to fruition during red/white games, weekend activities, recess, and during free time. Some examples of student feedback: Neven Columbo stated, “The addition of the nets court makes the field look more exciting, energetic, and inviting.” Carrie Gutterman said, “I like that there’s more of a variety of activities at recess; my favorite things to play are four square and knockout.” Maggie Vinson stated, “It's a great place to practice my soccer skills.” And Noah Ginsberg took a reflective stance saying, “I appreciate all the opportunities to engage with alumni at STU.” Students aren’t the only ones enjoying the refurbished field. For example, Mr. Sorge can often be seen using the Gaga pit he built, which has quickly become a fan favorite for many at the school.
Many generous alumni and donors to Stuart Hall, both named and unnamed, have made our school a better place. As we approach Founder’s Day or even just as we walk down the halls littered with plaques it's important to acknowledge the people who have worked to make our school experience as positive as possible.
Anne Cooke Strickler’s Obituary:
https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/charlottesville-va/anne-strickler-7176195
Destiny Emmert-Hart