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Walsh Athletic Complex

August 21, 2025

To the Branford Public Schools Community & Members of the Branford Community,

We are excited to announce the official opening of the Walsh Athletic Complex, a state-of-the-art facility designed to support the athletic and recreational needs of Branford Public Schools and the greater Branford community. Use of the complex will begin on Monday, August 25th, with a ribbon cutting ceremony scheduled for September 5th at 10:00 AM. All are invited to attend.

This long-anticipated facility represents our shared commitment to health, wellness, and community engagement. As we open this complex to our students, staff, and residents, we want to ensure that all users understand the expectations, rules, and processes for use.

The Complex comprises two synthetic turf fields; the "white" field can support football, soccer, and boys lacrosse. The "red" field can support soccer, girls lacrosse, and field hockey. The complex also includes; a natural grass softball field, playground area, swing set area, full and half court basketball, four square, hopscotch, restroom facilities, a walking path, and field lighting.

To ensure the facility remains in excellent condition and is enjoyed by all members of our community, please carefully review the following:

Facility Rules and Regulations:

  • Hours of Operation: The complex will observe BPS building hours; Monday - Friday 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM, Saturday 7:30 AM – 3:00 PM. Additionally, the complex will be open to the public when not in use by Branford Public Schools or approved organizations. There is a walking track surrounding the fields that is accessible only outside of school hours. Use of the turf field and softball fields require approval. More information is listed below.
  • Field Access: Access to the turf fields is limited to players, coaches, officials, trainers, and authorized personnel only. Minors should be supervised by an adult when using the complex outside of school and community sponsored activities.
  • The following are prohibited on the turf:
    • Metal cleats
    • Food of any kind
    • Sports Drinks, soda, coffee, or other flavored drinks other than water
    • Dogs or Pets of any kind
    • Glass, tables, chairs, tents, canopies or other items that would puncture the turf
    • Bicycles, scooters, wagons, strollers, or any unauthorized vehicles o Golfing
    • Portable heaters, grills, or open flames, including fireworks
    • Kicking, throwing, bouncing, hitting of balls against the fence, bleachers, or any standing structure
       
  • Additional Requirements: 
    • The facility is smoke and tobacco free.
    • Alcohol is prohibited
    • Goals and equipment should be lifted and moved only as needed and requested
    • Please do not drag equipment along the turf 
    • Any equipment moved must be returned to its original location
    • Automated External Defibrillators (AED) are located on the restroom facility and mounted to the rear fence
    • In the event of an emergency, call 911. The facility address is 185 Damascus Road
    • Unruly, disruptive behavior will not be tolerated - respect athletes, coaches, officials, and fans The Town of Branford and the Board of Education reserve the right to close the field at any time Your cooperation is essential to helping us maintain the facility

Reservations & Use Requests via ML Schedules

To ensure fair and organized access to the Walsh Athletic Complex, all groups and community organizations must submit a formal request through ML Schedules, the District's online facility use management system.

Reservation Guidelines:

1. Create an Account:
https://www.branfordschools.org/departments/facilities/facilities-request-and-reservations
2. Submit a Request: Log in and submit a facility use request for the desired date and time.
3. Approval Process: All requests will be reviewed by Branford Public Schools administration. Confirmation will be provided via email.
4. Usage Fees: Some reservations may be subject to facility use fees based on the nature of the group or event. Fees for use of the facility outside of building hours may apply.
5. Insurance Requirements: Organizations may be required to provide a Certificate of Insurance as part of the reservation process.
6. Non-profit Status: Organizations will be required to provide a 501c(3) certificate as part of the reservation process.

Note: Submission of a request does not guarantee use until the request is officially approved. For questions regarding scheduling or use of the Walsh Athletic Complex, please contact: Branford Public Schools Director of Facilities, Brendan Leddy: bleddy@branfordschools.org or Carmel O'Grady Sheehan: cosheehan@branfordschools.org.

We are proud to offer this world-class facility for our students and the broader Branford community. We look forward to many years of athletic excellence, community spirit, and shared experiences at the Walsh Athletic Complex.

Thank you for your cooperation in keeping this facility safe, clean, and welcoming for all.

Sincerely,
Brendan Leddy
Director of Facilities