Ready for Flight - A Chance to Play Foundation to Host Gala for New Elma School District Athletic Stadium

Elma, WA—The A Chance to Play Foundation, a newly established 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is set to host a Gala to raise funds to donate a new athletic stadium to the Elma School District. This initiative comes after years of the district's struggle to replace its old stadium, which was removed in 2014 due to structural issues and high maintenance costs.

For over a decade, the Elma community has longed for a new facility to be proud of. In February 2023, the district proposed a $66 million bond, which included $15 million earmarked for the athletic facility. However, community feedback in June led to removing athletic turf from the project, reducing the cost to a more manageable $2 million. With Davis Field sitting within a flood plain, the cost of turf and infrastructure to maintain the turf was high.  This significant reduction opened the door for Delaney and Ken Brogan to step in and establish the A Chance to Play Foundation in memory of Delaney's brother, Chance Brogan.

"The community's decision to support a more affordable project has brought us closer to addressing this long-standing need," said Superintendent Christopher Nesmith. "In a community where the average family only earns $47,000 annually, asking taxpayers for more is not feasible. The Brogans and their foundation's support are vital in bringing the community together to support and fund projects that matter most."

The Elma School District has been grappling with a $750,000 budget deficit, exacerbated by the end of federal COVID relief funds, a $272,123 reduction in the local levy due to decreasing home prices across the community, and increased operational costs. This financial strain leaves little room for maintaining athletic grounds or improving facilities.

Event Details

The inaugural Gala for A Chance to Play will be held at the Grays Harbor County Fairgrounds on Saturday, June 22, from 6 PM to 10 PM PDT. Located at 32 Elma McCleary Road, Elma, WA 98541, the event promises an evening filled with dining, music, and both live and silent auctions. 

Tickets are priced at $60 and are available for purchase online through Eventbrite at: A Chance to Play Tickets or can be bought at the venue on the day of the event.

The funds raised will be dedicated to the construction of the new Elma Eagles Covered Stands, marking a significant enhancement to our district’s sports facilities for both soccer and football.

Community Support and Participation

The Brogan family and the Elma School District invite the community to join in supporting this noble cause. Whether by attending the Gala, donating to the foundation, or simply spreading the word, your support is invaluable.

For those interested in contributing beyond attendance, please feel free to reach out for donation opportunities. Your generosity can make a significant impact.

Thank you for your continued love and support. We look forward to seeing you at the Gala and thank you in advance for your support and participation in making this vision a reality.