STADIUMS

Charlie Cleland Stadium at Ihrig Field

Ihrig Field

Stadium Info

Affectionately known as "Coach Charlie", he taught and coached at Sarasota High School for 36 years (1957-1994). He proudly introduced the first Anatomy and Physiology class in the state. He also taught physical education classes and coached football, swimming, and track. He loved all sports, but his passion was football. He began coaching football at Sarasota High School in 1957. He coached the Sailor football team for 27 years and was honored to serve as head football coach for 20 glorious seasons (1964-1983). He served as athletic director from 1981-1994, and he was Head of the Physical Education Department. Coach Charlie launched the Sarasota High School Stadium Fund in the mid-1970's which raised nearly $1,000,000, culminating in the 2003 dedication of "Cleland Stadium at Ihrig Field"