The excitement of college football is palpable in Terre Haute, Indiana, where the Indiana State University Memorial Stadium stands as a testament to the school's rich athletic history. As the home of the Indiana State University Sycamores football team, this stadium has witnessed countless thrilling matches, heart-stopping comebacks, and triumphant victories. Here are 10 things you might not know about this iconic stadium.
A Brief History of Memorial Stadium
Memorial Stadium, also known as Memorial Stadium at Indiana State University, was built in 1967. The stadium was constructed as a memorial to the men and women of Vigo County who served in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Over the years, the stadium has undergone several renovations and expansions, including a major facelift in 2014.
1. Seating Capacity
The stadium has a seating capacity of approximately 12,764, making it an intimate and electrifying atmosphere for fans to cheer on their favorite team. The seating arrangement is designed to provide excellent views of the action on the field, with the majority of seats located on the west side of the stadium.
2. Field Surface
The playing field at Memorial Stadium features a state-of-the-art artificial turf surface, which provides a safe and durable surface for athletes to compete on. The field is designed to mimic the look and feel of natural grass, while offering the benefits of reduced maintenance and increased durability.
3. Notable Features
One of the most distinctive features of Memorial Stadium is its unique scoreboard, which features a nostalgic, old-school design. The scoreboard is a nod to the stadium's rich history and provides a fun and quirky touch to the game-day experience.
4. Expansions and Renovations
Over the years, Memorial Stadium has undergone several expansions and renovations to improve the fan experience and enhance the facilities for athletes. In 2014, the stadium underwent a major renovation, which included the addition of new seating, improved concessions, and upgraded restrooms.
5. Other Events
While football is the main attraction at Memorial Stadium, the venue also hosts a variety of other events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and high school football games. The stadium's flexibility and amenities make it an attractive option for event planners and organizers.
6. Sycamore Athletics
The Indiana State University Sycamores football team is a member of the Missouri Valley Football Conference and competes at the NCAA Division I level. The team has a rich history of success, including several conference championships and appearances in the NCAA Division I Football Championship playoffs.
7. Tailgating
Tailgating is a beloved tradition at Memorial Stadium, with fans gathering in the parking lot before games to enjoy food, drinks, and music. The stadium offers several designated tailgating areas, including the popular "Sycamore Alley" section.
8. Concessions
Memorial Stadium offers a variety of concessions to satisfy any appetite, including classic stadium fare like hot dogs, burgers, and nachos. The stadium also features several specialty concessions, including a BBQ stand and a frozen treat cart.
9. Accessibility
Memorial Stadium is designed to be accessible to all fans, with several amenities and services available to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. The stadium features wheelchair-accessible seating areas, elevators, and restrooms, as well as a variety of assistive listening devices and sign language interpretation services.
10. Community Involvement
Indiana State University Memorial Stadium is committed to giving back to the local community. The stadium hosts several community events throughout the year, including the annual "Sycamore Community Day" event, which features a free football game, food, and activities for kids.
As you can see, Indiana State University Memorial Stadium is more than just a sports venue - it's a community hub, a gathering place for fans, and a source of pride for the local area. Whether you're a die-hard Sycamores fan or just looking for a fun and exciting experience, Memorial Stadium is the perfect destination.
FAQ Section
What is the seating capacity of Memorial Stadium?
+The seating capacity of Memorial Stadium is approximately 12,764.
What type of surface does the playing field feature?
+The playing field at Memorial Stadium features a state-of-the-art artificial turf surface.
What types of events are held at Memorial Stadium?
+Memorial Stadium hosts a variety of events, including football games, concerts, festivals, and high school football games.