LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – Due to unforeseen circumstances and safety concerns, school officials are moving this Friday’s football game between Clear Lake High and Kelseyville High.
The game, also called the “Bass Bowl,” originally was set to take place at the Kelseyville High School football field on Friday, Oct. 26.
However, Kelseyville High Principal Matt Cockerton said that due to problems with the field’s bleachers, which posed a potential safety hazard for students and fans, the game was being moved to the field at Clear Lake High School, located at 350 Lange St.
“The decision to change the venue was not easy and came after it was discovered that home bleachers at the Kelseyville stadium were compromised and the safety of fans were in question,” Cockerton said in a written statement. “The district has investigated numerous short-term solutions including bleacher rental to no avail due to short notice and cost prohibitiveness.”
On Friday, the junior varsity contest will begin at 5:30 p.m., to be followed by the varsity game at 7:30 p.m.
Lakeport residents should be aware that the game will bring with it more than the usual game noise.
Bass Bowl organizers announced that they were partnering with the California Historical Artillery Society to bring a Civil War style cannon to the event.
The cannon will be shot off at every score, and it was reported that those living within a mile of the stadium will be able to hear it.
Although the game will be held in Lakeport, Cockerton reported that Kelseyville High will host the event.
Cockerton said that Clear Lake High School season passes will not be honored at the Friday game, and all proceeds with the exception of the Clear Lake High snack bar will go to Kelseyville High.
Cockerton said that the Kelseyville district and high school appreciate the community’s support in the wake of the decision to move the game.
“We have contacted the necessary state officials and will pursue all avenues to correct this situation as quickly as possible,” Cockerton said.
He added, “We also extend a ‘thank you’ to the Lakeport Unified School District and Clear Lake High School for again helping in a time of need.”