The East Ridge Alumni & Supporters Association met Monday evening and heard from former Pioneer football coach Tim James about costs associated with new athletic facilities at Raymond James Stadium.

According to minutes from the meeting, James presented the group with plans and drawings from a vendor for facilities at the stadium such as restrooms and training room. The estimated cost would fall between $190,000 and $250,000.

Mike Evatt reported on his meeting with Hamilton County Schools Superintendent Rick Smith regarding plans for new bleachers at Raymond James Stadium. Evatt told the group that there are three area schools requesting funding for bleachers. He said the alumni group should focus on a field house, locker rooms, rest rooms, digital class room, press box and weight/training room for the stadium area.

ERHS football coach Tracy Malone was a special guest at the meeting. Malone expressed gratitude to the group for all the tailgating and support for the team “to rise up.” He said the alumni group was a good example of what being a fan is all about and appreciated the support throughout the season. He also invited all alumni and supporters to the football banquet scheduled for January 25 at the East Ridge Community Center.

Malone also discussed the needs of the team for the coming year, which included additional helmets because more students are interested in playing football after the record-setting season.

It was discussed that the group’s major fundraiser for next year will be a golf tournament along with an event called “East Ridge Festival.” The festival will be held in May at the stadium and will include a silent auction, dunk tank, live music, a flag football game and children’s activities.

The next meeting of the East Ridge Alumni & Supporters Association is scheduled for Feb. 1 at 7 p.m. at the school’s library.