VIENNA — The Vienna Booster Club approved funding  recently to help the school’s track team replace a damaged weather cover for the pole-vaulting pad, ensuring athletes have safe and protected equipment as the season gets underway.

Head coach Dave Martin requested assistance replacing the track team’s pole vault pad cover, which was damaged beyond repair. The full set of mats cost $25,000, but the requested cover alone carries a price of $3,692. Simmons asked the booster club to cover half of that cost, totaling $1,846.

“The pad and cover are custom-made for the mats, and with track season starting, it’s important to have this in place,” Martin said. “The last set of pads lasted about 15 years, and we take good care of them, but weather and wear eventually take a toll. This cover will help protect the mats and keep our athletes safe.”

After discussion, the booster club approved $2,000 to offset the cost of the weather cover, slightly above the requested half to cover any additional expenses.

Beth Wulff shared that the Maries County Bank is reviewing a grant process for a new baseball dugout at the park, with decisions expected later this spring.

The meeting concluded with scheduling reminders for upcoming spring events, including a school concert and a Historical Society craft show booth on May 9 that will happen at the school.

Other items addressed during the meeting included updates on Eagle Wear, which is nearly ready for distribution, and recent purchases for the girls basketball team. Athletic Director Kevin Schwartze noted the basketball team was grateful for the 10 new basketballs purchased by the club, which cost $831.60. Eagle Wear will be set up at upcoming games including the Lady Eagles versus Belle game on Feb. 19.