Construction on Saluki Stadium was completed in August 2010. The horseshoe-shaped stadium seats 15,000 spectators and hosts the school's American football program, replacing McAndrew Stadium. McAndrew Stadium was made in 1938 and stood as the main track and football stadium for 73 years. It was replaced by Saluki Stadium in 2010. McAndrew Stadium's demolition began and was completed in February of 2011. Saluki Stadium is part of the $83 million Saluki Way Project, which includes a major renovation to the 46-year-old SIU Arena and a new athletic support facility. The first event held at the stadium was an open house on August 24, 2010. Southern Illinois christened its new stadium on September 2, 2010 with a game against Quincy. Salukis Stadium itself is valued at $29.9 million. Along with the 15,000 seats, the stadium has a two-story press box with 12 club suites, a 2,500-square foot VIP Club Room, as well as booths for radio, television, coaches and the print media. A Daktronics video board and new FieldTurf was also added in 2019. 360 architecture was responsible for the design of the stadium. 360 architecture is owned by HOK Sports, who has built Rogers Place arena for the NHL’s Edmonton Oilers, and a new stadium for the Major League Soccer’s San Jose Earthquakes. The stadium hosted a large watch party for the August 21, 2017 solar eclipse.
Features
Seating includes 1,080 seat-back chairs as well as capacity for nearly 2,500 on the grass berm enclosing the north end zone. The two-story press box features 12 club suites, a VIP Club Room, along with traditional booths for radio, television, coaches and the print media. A 20x40 foot scoreboard with video replay capabilities in the North end zone and expanded concessions and restrooms enhances the fan experience. FieldTurf, a Tarkett Sports Company, installed its Duraspine PRO turf system and its patented sand and rubber infill at Saluki Stadium. The top of the line artificial turf is the same that has been installed at Gillette Stadium, home of the New England Patriots, and numerous other high-profile collegiate institutions and pro football organizations.
Design
and Image Architects, Inc. designed Saluki Stadium and J. E. Dunn Construction Group/Holland Construction Services Joint Venture is the general contractor.
