Newport, KY — On Tuesday, April 14, 2026, Newport Central Catholic High School (NCC) proudly celebrated the long-awaited Blessing and Dedication of the Ciafardini Family Athletic Complex. This transformational moment will propel the NewCath community forward into the next generation of student-athletes and academics on The Hill.
The celebration fittingly began with Mass at 1:00 PM, celebrated by the Most Reverend John C. Iffert, Bishop of Covington. As the first official event held at the complex, the Mass reflected the strong foundation of faith that continues to guide the NCC family.
After years of prayers, planning, generosity, and community support, the Ciafardini Family Athletic Complex stands as a testament to the strength and unity of the Thoroughbred family. From early conversations to the final phases of the Looking Up Campaign, this moment represents the fulfillment of a shared vision rooted in faith, perseverance, and NewCath pride.
Principal Kenny Collopy shared, “We are incredibly grateful for the support of the Ciafardini Family and all our donors who made this multisport complex and the entire Looking Up Campaign possible. This space will help our community form students not only as athletes, but as individuals of high character; striving to be the best versions of themselves as God calls us to be. Our community has served as a metaphorical light on the hill for decades and now this complex will be a literal reminder of the light of Christ to the Cincinnati River area for “a city on a hill cannot be hidden.”
On behalf of the Ciafardini Family, Tony Ciafardini said, “Just as my parents did for my siblings and me, I am proud to support the mission of Catholic education and my alma mater, Newport Catholic. This beautiful facility, with an absolutely incredible view, will improve the educational and athletic offerings of the school, strengthening the resources for the dedicated teachers, coaches, and community members at NCC.”
Bishop John C. Iffert reflected, “You all have an incredible new facility. Above all, it will serve as a foundation for building character. Here, you will learn how to interact with others, and you will come to understand who you are—and who you are not. Life is not a game, but in this place, you will engage with it in a way that is truly transcendent. Remember: the good, the true, and the beautiful are what matter most; everything else is a distraction. If you live this way, NCC will become what it aspires to be … a city, a beacon of light, a light set on the hill.”
Made possible through the leadership gifts of Anthony (Tony) Ciafardini, Newport Catholic ‘66, along with the collective support of hundreds of donors, volunteers, and faithful supporters, the complex represents far more than a new athletic venue, it is a symbol of NewCath’s enduring spirit.
The state-of-the-art facility provides a permanent home for Thoroughbred athletics, including soccer, football, and track, along with practice space for baseball, softball and cheer. Key features include a synthetic turf field, six-lane track, stadium seating, lights, and essential amenities that will serve generations of student-athletes.
The Ciafardini Family Athletic Complex will be a place where students grow not only in competition, but in faith, character, and community, key pillars of the school’s mission. This monumental achievement signals a new chapter in NewCath’s storied history. A history built on tradition, strengthened by sacrifice, and driven by pride in what it means to be a Thoroughbred.
Event Details:
Date: Tuesday, April 14, 2026
Mass Celebrant: Most Reverend John C. Iffert, Bishop of Covington
Location: Ciafardini Family Athletic Complex
For more information, please contact [Insert Contact Information].
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