Words by Mike Camunas with The Laker/Lutz News
They built it because it was time.
But now, after two decades, Academy at the Lakes finally has an outdoor sports field at its campus, off Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes.
The new field belongs to arguably the longstanding private school’s most successful sports program: the Wildcats softball team.
“I’ve been here since I was a freshman,” junior pitcher Sydney Klein said, “and everyone has always talked about not having sports fields here, and to be the first to get it is an honor.
“I also feel like we’re a very successful sport at this school, so it feels like an accomplishment — like this team and program has earned it.”
The softball team makes a strong case, especially when it’s not too far removed from winning back-to-back state championships in 2018 and 2019.