Aaron Filieo
Cape Elizabeth High School
Head Football Coach

I can't begin to describe the excitement that has already taken over this town now that the field is complete. There exists an indescribable buzz among kids and adults alike. To see a dream realized in a short time affirms the strong community bond and sense of pride here in Cape Elizabeth. Having said that, I can't help but think about the dream that I had a few nights ago, a type of dream that I often have. It is the same dream that we all have - you know the one when you wake up right before the most thrilling part. As you know, in some of these dreams - usually called nightmares - it is a good thing to wake up before you meet some tragic fate. However, it is a real bummer when the dream is one that is full of joy and excitement and it suddenly comes to a halt. The dream never gets finished.

I describe my dream experience with you because this is partly how I feel about Hannaford Field! I feel like the dream is being cut short right now. I look at the turf - and I get chills. I look at the goalposts - and I get chills. I look at the lights - and I get chills. But the chills only last so long. I soon realize that the full dream is not complete as I envision the first Friday night game under the lights ... with no bleachers. I think about the time that I saw an Academy Award winning movie while sitting on the popcorn and gum filled floor because there were no more seats. I think about how excited I was to drive my uncle's shiny new Ford Mustang, only to find out that he ripped out the front seats and that I had to sit on a milk crate to drive it. What sense does it make to have a beautiful product without the ability to comfortably enjoy it?

In my eyes - if the turf field represents the hard work and commitment of coaches and players, then the bleachers represent the hard work and dedication of the fans, parents and entire community. The bleachers say, "sit down, be comfortable and enjoy watching the pride of your town!" The bleachers are a necessary piece of this wonderful creation. I was just talking to one of my scouts who recalled a conversation he had with a parent from another football team in our conference. The parent stated that when the lights and bleachers went into their high school complex several years ago - it forever changed the pride and excitement for high school sports and the town overall!

Cape athletics has excelled for generations. However, just like any successful organization - it needs a breath of new life every now and then to stay on top. For us, Hannaford field is that breath of new life. It is that dream that so many of us share. Please ... help us make this dream complete. Help us see the entire dream to its completion. I am not ready to wake up.

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