The History of Junge Field

Construction began on Junge Field in the winter of 1933 on land donated by August C. Junge with supervision of the building by Joplin architect Trueman E. Martinie. A dedication was held on Friday, September 28, 1934 with an address by Missouri State Senator Cliff Titus, a band contest, and the first football game with the winner being Joplin High. The following paragraph about Junge Field appeared in the Joplin High School 1935 yearbook:

"For many years Joplin High School has felt the need of a first-class field for athletic events. Out of this need has grown our fine new stadium at Junge Field."

Mr. August C. Junge started the movement by donating the centrally located plot of ground comprising the field. For a number of years progress was slow because of lack of funds. Finally, in 1934, with C.W.A. labor available, all Joplin united in one great effort to provide a thoroughly modern stadium. Materials were provided through voluntary subscriptions of Joplin citizens, students, and alumni; and on September 28 the new $75,000 concrete stadium, filled to capacity, was dedicated to clean athletics and good sportsmanship, at the Baxter Springs-Joplin game. The students of Joplin High School take this opportunity to thank all who helped them in any way to secure this fine stadium."

On September 13, 2002, Junge Field was rededicated following renovations that were made thanks to a bond issue passed by Joplin voters. A new entry was created, and many other modern features were added. A display was also added below the stands that tells the story of the district's champion football history. Attendees can view this impressive display during football games. A state-of-the-art artificial playing surface was installed at Junge in the summer of 2007.

In the Summer of 2014, construction of a new FEMA shelter on the North end of Junge Field was completed. The new structure serves as a storm shelter for local residents, but also as a state-of-the-art locker room, training room, officials dressing room, coaches office, and hospitality area on game nights. On August 22, 2014, during a pre-game ceremony, amenities surrounding Junge Field, were renamed the "Dewey Combs Athletic Complex at Junge Field" honoring long time Joplin High School and Joplin Parkwood High School football coach Dewey Combs.