BREAKING: Windermere High football stadium opener postponed

Windermere High's first-ever on-campus football game and ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new stadium, scheduled for 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 13, has been postponed due to not being issued the needed certification.

"Due to circumstances beyond our control, we did not receive the certificate of occupancy needed to open the new on-campus stadium," said Windermere High Principal Andrew Leftakis, in a voicemail to parents of Windermere students. "As a result, the ribbon cutting scheduled for Friday will be postponed."

According to Orange County Public Schools Media Relations Administrator Michael Ollendorff, the certificate of occupancy cannot be issued until the stadium's concession stand and announcers booth are completed. The OCPS Building Code Compliance Office is responsible for construction and maintenance permits, plan reviews and inspections. 

"The concession stand and announcers booth still need to be completed and inspected before a certificate of occupancy is issued," he said.

When the stadium will officially open has not yet been confirmed and after beginning the season with three consecutive road games, the Wolverines are scheduled to host their next four games as the home team.

"I know this is disappointing news to hear, but please know that we are working diligently to get the necessary approval to officially open our new stadium," Leftakis said. "I appreciate your continued support of Windermere High School."

This week's game, previously scheduled to be the stadium-opening matchup, pitting the undefeated Wolverines (3-0) and visiting University High will now be played at Ocoee High, at its original time and date. 

"This decision (to play the game at Ocoee High) was made in an effort to reduce the distance required by families to travel for the game," Leftakis said. "Tickets for Friday's game will be honored at Ocoee High School. Refunds will be made available for those that prefer not to attend the game. Additional information will be provided shortly on how to process a refund, for those interested." 

This is a developing story, check back here for updates.