The University of Maryland is aiming to build a new soccer stadium, unveiling plans for the venue as part of a larger athletic facilities campaign.
Under details unveiled by Maryland on Wednesday, the new soccer stadium is among the goals of a fundraising campaign that is pushing for a slate of other new or renovated facilities. Per the campaign’s website, the new 8,800-capacity on-campus soccer stadium would feature modern player facilities, along with a range of fan amenities that includes general admission areas and premium seating. In addition, the stadium would offer new video and audio systems along with LED lighting.
Maryland’s men’s and women’s soccer programs currently compete at Ludwig Field, and the stadium plans released by the university should amount to a substantial upgrade if they come to frutition. More from The Washington Times:
Maryland outlined plans for $25 million worth of facility improvements, funded through private donations, for sports programs that will benefit 20 varsity teams….
“We are investing in facilities that will impact hundreds of student-athletes, enhancing their experience athletically, academically and socially,” athletic director Damon Evans said in a press release.
The top tasks include opening a new soccer stadium, renovating the stadium housing women’s lacrosse and field hockey and building player development centers for the baseball, softball and golf programs. The track and field stadium will also receive a $9 million face-lift, the single-highest price tag mentioned.
“For the better part of my 27 years leading this program, I have passionately espoused my vision of having a soccer stadium to properly reflect our great history and ensure our future excellence,” head men’s soccer coach Sasho Cirovski said in a statement. “Our alumni, our donors, and our incredible fan base have been anxiously awaiting this announcement! To finally see that vision become a reality leaves me incredibly happy and, quite honestly, very emotional! I am very grateful to the leadership of Damon Evans in finding a wonderful solution that helps our track and field program as well as both soccer programs. I can’t wait for the first shovel to dig in!”
“Ludwig Field is one of the premier destinations in college soccer, and this stadium will further enhance the profile and prestige of Maryland Soccer,” women’s soccer head coach Ray Leone said in a statement. “These facility upgrades will not only provide a first class experience for our student-athletes, but also enhance the gameday experience for our fans. Having a stadium that matches the passion and pride that defines Maryland Soccer will truly be a game-changer for our program.”
Rendering courtesy University of Maryland athletics.