VIENNA — The Vienna Eagles Athletic Booster Club met Oct. 1, where much of the conversation centered around a request from Coach Simmons to support improvements to the baseball field.

VHS baseball head coach Tim Simmons explained the field’s pitching mound has seen steady wear from a busy season and constant play. The team recently bought a pallet of specialized clay to rebuild the mound, but additional supplies are needed to finish the job and extend repairs around the mound. Simmons

“At the game last night we used less than half a bag of clay to put the pitching mound back together,” Simmons said. “We want to get home plate done too.”

He described the clay as a specific mix designed to withstand moisture and heavy use, noting that it costs around $800 per pallet. The material is essential for maintaining the mound’s shape and preventing uneven ground that could affect play. Simmons said the goal is to complete the work before the next spring season and mentioned that purchasing through the Booster Club would help save money by avoiding shipping fees.

Although no purchase will be made immediately, the motion to approve the expense was passed, allowing Simmons to order the clay when timing and weather conditions are right. He told the group that snow actually helps condition the material and won’t harm the field over the winter.

Simmons also gave an update on the batting cage at the city park, sharing the city plans to buy a new cage and net, and has given permission to drill into the concrete for a more permanent setup. He expects those upgrades to be finished before the upcoming baseball season.

The meeting moved on to covered plans for this year’s blackout shirt, which will feature student designs. The winning design will be chosen by the school, and the club will follow up with Athletic Director Kevin Schwartze and Softball coach Jess Gibbs to complete production once a winner is selected.

Discussion turned to Eaglewear sales, where members reviewed current merchandise and considered new items. A few additions were mentioned, including new polos, women’s shirts, and cardigans that are in the design phase. Along with the popular visors already being sold, an additional hat design is also in the works..

The Maries County Historical Society has offered the Booster Club a booth at its upcoming event later this month, where the club plans to sell merchandise and raise funds for future projects. The group will also have a presence at the school’s Christmas programs to continue those efforts.

Those in attendance included President Lori Hayes, Vice President Julie Long, Treasurer Amy Rowden, Coach Simmons, Beth Wulff, Angie Weeks and freshman Alexis Curtis with her mother Tami Curtis. Secretary Jodi Nichols was absent.