When the lights go out on a Friday night in Baldwin City, the town’s high school football and track teams hop on a bus and travel to Baker University’s Liston Stadium. The lack of permanent lighting at Baldwin High School forces the teams to play “away” games even when they’re technically at home.

National contest gives hope for a permanent solution

Senior quarterback Creyton Frost summed up the situation: “Every home game is a home game, but technically it’s not a home game.” The school’s participation in T‑Mobile’s Friday Night 5G Lights Midwest division—part of a national competition to bring stadium lighting to schools—offers a chance to change that.

As of Friday, Baldwin High ranked third in the division, with nine days left to vote. “We need support more than ever,” said activities director Dayton Valentine, who grew up in Baldwin City and now leads the athletic program.

Potential $1 million award could fund a new stadium

Valentine explained that the district currently pays roughly $50,000 a year in rent to Baker University for the use of its field. “We’re fortunate to play on a college football field for an NAIA school, which is cool, but there are drawbacks,” he said. “I’d rather invest in Baldwin’s athletic program than keep paying rent.”

If Baldwin High wins the Midwest division, it could receive an additional $1 million. Valentine envisions using the money to build a multi‑purpose competition stadium that would bring permanent lighting and allow the school to host its own events.

Community pride fuels the campaign

Valentine’s personal connection to the school runs deep. He was a sophomore on the football team when his father died of stage‑four cancer. “The town rallied behind me and my sister, helped me achieve my dreams,” he recalled. That same community spirit now drives the push for lights.

Senior Emme Nigh, who plays flag football and other sports, echoed the sentiment: “We’re such a tight‑knit town, and I think we could win.” She noted that games are sometimes cut short because of darkness, and that the school has had to move contests to away venues just to have lights.

Voting deadline approaches

The contest’s voting window closes on October 25. Residents are encouraged to cast their votes online to help Baldwin High secure the prize. Valentine stressed that the competition is not just about a trophy; it’s about giving Baldwin’s youth the facilities they deserve.

“If we win, we’ll be up to par with everybody else in our league,” Valentine said. “And if we’re fortunate enough to win the $1 million, we’ll start looking at making a multi‑purpose competition stadium.”

For now, the community’s focus remains on getting the votes in and keeping the lights on for the next generation of Baldwin athletes.

Original reporting: KSHB 41 Kansas City (local) — read the source article.