New Bleachers, Student Section Planned At Orchard

Cyclone Nation is about to have a new student epicenter thanks to a second-straight big summer project in the gym.

The Orchard site of Clearwater-Orchard replaced its flooring last year and is focused on replacing bleachers this summer. And, much to the excitement of youth, the student section will be moved to the stage during games.

“Our kids really want the student section, a spot that is theirs,” said Cathy Cooper, principal at Orchard. “We had a big game against Neligh last year and put students on the stage but used chairs. That wasn’t conducive to watching the game. With the bleachers, we'll put students and the band on the stage.”

Cooper said the new bleachers in the gym will be similar to those installed recently in Clearwater. They will be plastic and primarily silver in color with green and black accents to bring out the school colors.

“The old bleachers are almost out,” Cooper said. “We have workers coming in today to put the old ones on the stage, and the new bleachers will be installed toward the end of June."

Two sections of the old wooden bleachers will be moved to the stage, where they can be pushed up against the wall when not in use. 

Cooper said the new bleachers will allow slightly less seating due to regulations, but with the additional bleachers on the stage, that will more than make up for the lost area.

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