Arizona State is set to make a significant leap forward with the construction of one of the largest indoor football practice facilities in the nation. Thanks to a substantial naming rights donation, the project is expected to break ground by early summer, as announced by ASU's athletic director, Graham Rossini, and head football coach, Kenny Dillingham.
This state-of-the-art facility will feature both a 50-yard and a 100-yard field under one roof, creating an expansive 180 to 190-yard indoor space. Coach Dillingham expressed excitement about the potential for enhancing the game day experience, envisioning it as a hub for tailgating and fan engagement.
The donors behind this project are linked to a company with longstanding ties to ASU, albeit not traditionally in athletics. Their identity will be unveiled at the groundbreaking ceremony, marking a significant step forward due to their generous contribution, which has fast-tracked the timeline. Initially, construction wasn't expected to start until January.
Rossini highlighted the unique nature of this partnership, attributing it to a local group that recognized the value of associating their name with ASU's football facility. He emphasized the importance of community and fan support, noting the evolving landscape of college sports and the benefits of investing in student-athletes.
Renderings of the facility have been released, with final project details to be completed in the coming weeks. Originally estimated at $26 million, the project's budget has swelled to $55 million, thanks to successful fundraising efforts. ASU aims to have the facility ready by February 2028, just in time for spring football practices.
Located next to Mountain America Stadium, the facility will replace part of an existing parking lot with a new turf field, taking over from the Verde Dickie Dome bubble structure. This space will also serve as a "Fan Zone" for pregame festivities, drawing inspiration from the lively atmosphere of the 16th hole at the Waste Management Phoenix Open. Coach Dillingham is enthusiastic about creating a similar vibe for ASU fans, enhancing the overall game day experience.