The excitement of college football is unmatched, and for fans of Eastern Kentucky University (EKU), there's no better place to experience it than at their home stadium. Located in Richmond, Kentucky, the Eastern Kentucky University Football Stadium is a state-of-the-art facility that has been the proud home of the EKU Colonels football team since 1969.
History of the Stadium
The EKU Football Stadium has a rich history, dating back to its opening in 1969. The stadium was built at a cost of $3.5 million and had an initial seating capacity of 10,000. Over the years, the stadium has undergone several renovations and expansions, including a major upgrade in 2004 that increased the seating capacity to 20,000.
Features of the Stadium
The EKU Football Stadium is a modern facility that offers a range of amenities and features that enhance the fan experience. Some of the notable features of the stadium include:
- Seating Capacity: The stadium has a seating capacity of 20,000, providing ample space for fans to cheer on the Colonels.
- FieldTurf: The stadium features a state-of-the-art FieldTurf surface, which provides a safe and durable playing surface for the players.
- Scoreboard: The stadium has a large video scoreboard that displays live action, replays, and graphics, adding to the excitement of the game.
- Concession Stands: The stadium has several concession stands that offer a range of food and beverage options, from classic stadium fare to more substantial meals.
Amenities and Services
The EKU Football Stadium offers a range of amenities and services to ensure that fans have a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Some of the notable amenities and services include:
- Parking: The stadium has several parking lots that offer ample parking for fans.
- Restrooms: The stadium has several restrooms that are clean, well-maintained, and easily accessible.
- Concession Stands: The stadium has several concession stands that offer a range of food and beverage options.
- First Aid: The stadium has a first aid station that is staffed by trained medical personnel.
Getting to the Stadium
The EKU Football Stadium is located on the campus of Eastern Kentucky University in Richmond, Kentucky. The stadium is easily accessible by car, and there are several parking lots available for fans. The stadium is also within walking distance of several hotels and restaurants, making it a convenient destination for fans who want to make a weekend of it.
Tips for Visiting the Stadium
If you're planning to visit the EKU Football Stadium, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your experience:
- Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at the stadium at least an hour before kickoff to allow time for parking, concessions, and finding your seat.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as you'll be standing and cheering for most of the game.
- Bring Cash: While many concession stands accept credit and debit cards, it's a good idea to bring cash as well, in case some vendors only accept cash.
- Be Prepared for Security Checks: The stadium has security checks in place to ensure fan safety, so be prepared to have your bags and person checked before entering the stadium.
EKU Colonels Football Team
The EKU Colonels football team has a rich history of success, with several conference championships and playoff appearances. The team is led by head coach, Walt Wells, who has been at the helm since 2020. The Colonels play in the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) and have a fierce rivalry with several other teams in the conference.
Notable Players
The EKU Colonels football team has produced several notable players over the years, including:
- Noah Spence: A defensive end who played for the Colonels from 2012 to 2014 and was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft.
- Jeffrey Canady: A wide receiver who played for the Colonels from 2013 to 2016 and signed with the New York Jets as an undrafted free agent in 2017.
- T.J. Pryor: A defensive back who played for the Colonels from 2014 to 2017 and signed with the Minnesota Vikings as an undrafted free agent in 2018.
FAQs
Q: What is the seating capacity of the EKU Football Stadium?
A: The seating capacity of the EKU Football Stadium is 20,000.
Q: What is the surface of the playing field at the EKU Football Stadium?
A: The playing field at the EKU Football Stadium is a FieldTurf surface.
Q: Are there concession stands available at the EKU Football Stadium?
A: Yes, there are several concession stands available at the EKU Football Stadium that offer a range of food and beverage options.
Q: Is there parking available at the EKU Football Stadium?
A: Yes, there are several parking lots available at the EKU Football Stadium.
Q: Can I bring my pet to the EKU Football Stadium?
A: No, pets are not allowed inside the EKU Football Stadium, with the exception of service animals.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the Eastern Kentucky University Football Stadium and the EKU Colonels football team. If you have any further questions or would like more information, please don't hesitate to contact us.