Waldo Stadium Western Michigan University瓦尔多体育场西密歇根大学.pptVIP

Waldo Stadium By Shannon Hatch EDT 347 “From Swamp to Swank” /centennial/history_waldo-full.html President Dwight B. Waldo acquired the 14-acre parcel near Prospect Hill in 1913. Waldo launched the University’s first fund-raising campaign to help pay for the land. In the 1920s, the property featured a running track, football and baseball fields, bleachers and tennis courts. A Football Stadium Becomes Reality Financial maneuvering by WMU President Paul V. Sangren resulted in a new football stadium in 1939. The University changed its nickname from the “Hilltoppers” to the “Broncos.” Waldo Stadium originally seated 15,000 spectators. Updates of the 1970s The new stadium was six feet lower. The stadium was converted to a bowl-shaped arena. Seating was expanded to accommodate 25,000 fans. AstroTurf covered the field. The Next Stage In 1989, the stadium was expanded to seat 30,200 spectators. A commercial natural grass surface was laid in 1992. A new electronic scoreboard and lighted signs were also added. Updating the Scene In 1995, permanent lights were installed for night games. Additional bench and chair-back seating were added. WMU enhanced public facilities at the stadium. The press box was rebuild and expanded. The Bill Brown Alumni Football Center The 55,000 square foot center opened in 1998. The $8.2 million addition was funded by private sources. It features locker rooms, meeting rooms, training facilities and a 130-seat auditorium. The 3rd floor coaches’ offices are used for instruction and as leased viewing suites on game days. Any More Enhancements? The stadium’s natural grass was replaced with NeXturf in 2001. Phase I of WMU’s first comprehensive indoor athletic facility was completed in the fall of 2002. The new building was named the Donald “J” Steele Athletic Center, and added ten viewing suites to Waldo Stadium. WMU is Certainly Proud! “Such substantial enhancements over the years have allowed the venerable stadium to maintain its heritage as an out