EWU should use Albi

Greg Lee’s column (Sept. 29, “One vote to keep Albi going”) endorsing the use of Joe Albi Stadium was a start at looking at what is really an uncrowned jewel.  But certainly, more could, and should, be said on this subject.

After relocating to Spokane a decade ago after watching high school games for more than 70 years in Montana, it was a relief to see the idiotic plans to sell the venerable site tossed out.  The eventual refurbishing of the field and stands has made it a venue that stands out nationwide.  This was apparent after watching all those high school games featured on ESPN earlier this fall.  None came close to Albi.

But any discussion about Albi should also note the shortsighted view of the administrative staff at Eastern Washington University.  Installing a ridiculous red turf hardly satisfied the desperate needs for an acceptable field there.  But perhaps EWU could solve some of its attendance problems by scheduling big rivalry games, such as Montana and Montana State, at Albi.

Thousands more would flock there and pay premium prices, a la the $51 tab for the EWU-Griz game in Missoula this year.  The fans would be happy, the players could perform in a real stadium, the financial coffers at EWU would swell by many thousands. Even those watching on TV could actually see the game.

It is a no-brainer.

Bill Cooney

Spokane