LAURIUM, Mich. (WZMQ) – The Keweenaw Health Foundation has awarded a $7,570 grant to Calumet Township to support much-needed updates to Paul Lehto Field.
The funding will replace portions of the fencing along the infield and add protective fencing in front of both dugouts. Those improvements are essential to ensuring player and spectator safety and maintaining compliance with Michigan High School Athletic Association and Little League regulations.
Formerly known as Wolverine Field, Paul Lehto Field is a full-size baseball diamond used by players age 13 and up throughout the Calumet area. It serves as home field for Keweenaw Little League, the Twilight League, and Calumet High School’s JV and Varsity baseball programs. The fencing updates will allow the field to host playoff games later into the season, helping strengthen the area’s baseball community.
Since Calumet High School’s baseball program launched in 2016, local interest in the sport has steadily grown. This past season, 33 players tried out for high school baseball, while Keweenaw Little League fielded four teams in the 13–16 age range—the strongest participation numbers in years.
“Having a safe, regulation-compliant field means everything to our players,” said Mark Paulson, Calumet High School Baseball Coach. “These improvements will protect our kids and coaches, but they’ll also enhance the experience for spectators and allow us to host postseason play right here in our community. It’s an investment that supports the growth of baseball in the Copper Country for years to come.”
The Keweenaw Health Foundation’s mission is to improve health and wellness across the region, and supporting youth sports plays an important role in that goal.
“At its heart, community health is about giving people—especially kids—safe spaces to be active and engaged,” said Jenn Jenich-Laplander, Executive Director of the Keweenaw Health Foundation. “This project at Paul Lehto Field promotes physical activity, teamwork, and connection, all of which contribute to a healthier community. We’re proud to help make that possible.”
The fencing project will begin this fall, ensuring Paul Lehto Field remains a safe and welcoming place for players and families for many seasons to come.
Those interested in supporting the Keweenaw Health Foundation’s mission can call (906) 337-6541.
