Fernley football field, track severely damaged by flooding

Robert Perea, The Fernley Reporter

A torrent of water from a thunderstorm Wednesday night has left the Fernley High School football field and track and field complex covered in sediment, and may require major repairs before it is playable.

The field and track were still swamped with water Thursday morning, but when the water receded, a layer of sediment was left behind.

“There is a lot of sediment covering the track, runways to jumping pits, the shot put throwing area, and the football field itself,” athletic director Paul Sullivan said. 

If the fall sports season had not been postponed because of the restrictions in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Fernley soccer and football teams would no be able to use the field.

As it is, it’s uncertain whether the track facilities and football field will be repaired in time if sports are allowed to return in February, as currently planned.

Lyon County facility representatives met with its insurance agent and inspected all areas Thursday afternoon. 

“Right now we aren’t sure what type of repairs need to be made,” Sullivan said. “This claim has been filed and now we are waiting for their report and findings.” 

The rush of water also flowed over the baseball field, leaving a layer of desert sand covering the red infield.

Despite the damage, Sullivan found a ray of humor amidst the situation.

“The good news is, some of the gopher holes were filled in,” he said.