Bureau Valley’s Storm Cellar reveals new video boards
The Storm Cellar was graced with the presence of the new video scoreboards this week, showcasing interactive scoring, sport-specific graphics, and team and individual photos, among other features. Bureau Valley volleyball fans at the Storm Cellar got to witness the unveiling of two new video boards – one on the East end, larger in size, and a smaller board positioned at the West end by the entrance. Additionally, a smaller video board was added to the junior high’s Storm Gym to enhance the viewing experience. These new additions promise to revolutionize the way events are experienced by audiences.
The interactive displays on the new video scoreboards include sport-specific terminology and graphics tailored to fit the event being played. Terms like “ace,” “block,” and “spike” are prominently featured during volleyball games, adding to the excitement and engagement levels of the audience. In between the games, the video boards also showcase team and individual photos, alongside the weekly Bureau Valley activities calendar, offering a comprehensive viewing experience for attendees.
Bureau Valley has taken a student-centered approach by involving students in creating the custom graphics and displays for the video boards. Students engage in producing content during digital club activities, study halls, and homeroom sessions, with the assistance of BV tech expert Ryan Carlson and Athletic Director Phillip Przybyla. This initiative not only enhances student involvement but also equips them with marketable skills valuable for future academic and career pursuits.
Superintendent Jason Stabler emphasized the significance of student-driven content creation, citing it as a gateway to developing skills highly sought after in the job market. He expressed excitement over the increased programming that the video scoreboards will facilitate, expanding beyond athletic events to include PE classes, school ceremonies, and other school activities. Stabler highlighted the positive impact the video boards have had in elevating social media outreach efforts, aiming to enhance the overall experience of students and attendees.
BV senior volleyball player Emily Wright lauded the video boards, describing them as amazing additions to the Storm Cellar. Expressing her excitement for utilizing the boards further, Wright acknowledged the initial adjustment period but expressed enthusiasm over the creative opportunities offered by the video scoreboards. She noted the versatile use of the boards beyond sports events, citing examples like utilizing them during Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) meetings.
The funding for the video boards was made possible through sponsorships from Central Bank, TCI, Marquis Energy, and the BV Sports Boosters, totaling approximately $130,000 for both gyms. The collaboration between these sponsors and the school facilitated the installation of state-of-the-art video boards, enriching the spectator experience. Moreover, Bureau Valley took proactive steps by installing shot clocks for basketball games ahead of the statewide implementation in the 2026-27 season, demonstrating a commitment to advancing technological infrastructure in sports facilities.