Aurora University Completes New Football and Soccer Stadium

AURORA, Ill. August 26, 2008 - Aurora University’s campus was enhanced this summer as the school continued to add up-to-date facilities for students and the community.

One priority over the past several years has been the university’s athletic facilities. Completed this summer was a new $3.7 million football and soccer field on the northwest corner of the campus. Begun in May, the project includes the 240 by 400-foot field with an artificial turf surface, a grandstand with seating for more than 600, sports information center and restrooms.

The majority of the work on the stadium was completed this summer, allowing Spartan soccer and football teams to practice on the field. Work on the grandstand and sports information center will be completed soon.

A Spartan Plaza is planned between Alumni Hall and the stadium, creating a new venue for alumni and friends to gather.

In the first game on the new turf, the Spartan women’s soccer team will host Carroll University at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 29. The football Spartans will debut on the field at 1 p.m. on Sept. 20 when they host Illinois Wesleyan.

AU President Rebecca L. Sherrick said, “The university has long been known for fielding outstanding intercollegiate athletic teams. By building a new football and soccer field, we are providing our students and coaches with the resources to help them reach their future potential.”

Tom Hammond, vice president for administration, said the construction company used green practices whenever possible.

For example, existing bleachers were donated to Aurora Christian High School and approximately 1,000 cubic yards of surplus topsoil was used by the City of Aurora. Other materials were taken to a local recycling plant.

Several years ago, the university launched the first phase of this effort to upgrade athletic facilities when Thornton gymnasium was renovated, including several infrastructure improvements in Alumni Hall.

Late last fall, AU announced its decision to partner with the City of Aurora to use and improve Solfisburg Park for the new Spartan baseball facility.

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