High school sports complex dedicated

It was a big day at Skyline High School in Idaho Falls. The sports complex was dedicated to a man that holds the school dear to his heart.

Terry Layland was a part of the first graduating class of skyline in 1969 and has been a huge supporter of the school since, volunteering his time for years.

“He’s bought the grizzly bears for the school, he’s put lights on the football fields, build sheds for track. softball, football, he put scoreboards for the baseball and softball complexes. Constantly trying to do things to help support Skyline,” says Bill Cairns, Activities and Athletic Director at Skyline High School.

“I wanted to do things that the kids would enjoy. They’re going to belong to something and I wanted them to belong to something good. And that’s where athletics comes in. Gets the kids out of their basements, they get exercise and I get to enjoy them. I miss the seniors every year but every year I have a group of freshmen coming in,” says Terry Layland.

And his kindness is greatly valued.

“Deep gratitude initially, and very appreciative of him. His willingness to bless somebody else’s life and pay it forward or make a contribution he’s always one we can rely on,” says Cairns.

And Terry Layland has a message for everyone.

“I try to make everybody’s life, everybody’s day a little bit brighter and I think if everybody would do that. Acts of kindness go a long way and are very rewarding. You’d be amazed how you feel after you do an act of kindness. And I wish that everybody would try that, it’s a good thing, it’s habit forming.”

In addition to the dedication, there is also a “Terry Layland Day.” The first Tuesday of May, Skyline students do acts of service for the community in honor of Layland.

Some of Layland’s contributions include:

Two mounted Grizzly bears Founded Westside Athletic Club Lights on the football field at Skyline High School Scoreboard at Skyline’s football field Storage sheds for track, softball, football and grid kid Scoreboards on baseball and football fields Bleachers at the Skyline baseball field Concessions stand and bathrooms at Skyline complex. The restraining wall at the baseball field The “Spirit Rock” Skyline High School Pantry start-up “Memorial of Remembrance” at Skyline baseball field “Gone but not forgotten” rock