Governors State University Unveils New Soccer Stadium for Jaguars

The Exciting New Soccer Stadium at Governors State University

In a significant development for the Governors State University (GovState) Jaguars, a brand new soccer stadium is on the verge of completion. Located just steps away from the residence hall Prairie Place, this facility marks the first of its kind in the university's history and is anticipated to be ready for use this fall.

A Long-Awaited Dream for Student Athletes

The previous practices and games took place off-campus, primarily at a stadium in Crown Point, Indiana. Now, the Jaguars are counting down the days until they can finally train and compete on their own turf.

The state-of-the-art stadium features FIFA-rated turf, ensuring a quality playing surface that meets international standards. The facility will include covered benches and seating for up to 400 fans, transforming the once barren area into a vibrant hub for sporting events.

The new soccer stadium is not only a facility for the players but also a center of community engagement. Matthew Eggert, the head coach of the men's soccer team, stated, "The inspiration for this was to create a college-level stadium that not only motivates our athletes but also provides better recruitment possibilities and opportunities for the community to see what we stand for at Governors State."

A Milestone in GovState Athletics

Soccer became a part of the Governors State athletic program only recently, having been introduced in 2019. The establishment of this sport has significantly boosted the university's athletic profile since GovState initially began its athletic journey in 2014. Celebrating its 11th anniversary, the university is witnessing an uplift in campus morale, increased student engagement in athletics, and a diverse roster of international players.

This year's soccer teams comprise 80 student athletes, including 15 international students hailing from 13 different countries. Eggert takes pride in the team's achievement of having a substantial number of domestic players participate in national tournaments, emphasizing the equal opportunities provided to both local and international talents.

Building on Momentum

Eggert shared the excitement surrounding the new facility, noting that it builds on the momentum of their recent achievements: "Anytime that you're able to graduate 10 seniors and move five players onto the Division 1 level, everyone should take pride in that and being part of the program."

With the opening of this soccer stadium, the Jaguars will not only improve their training facilities but also increase their capacity to host more games and tournaments, showcasing the university's commitment to excellence in athletics.

For those interested in following the Jaguars' progress, the full schedule is available on the GovState athletics website. With the new stadium set to open soon, it’s an exciting time for both the players and the community, as they collectively celebrate this remarkable addition to Governors State University.

This development is a landmark achievement for the university, paving the way for future generations of athletes and strengthening the bond between the campus and the local community.

As the campus gears up for this new chapter in its athletic history, heads turn to the future, where champions are cultivated and community engagement flourishes. Be a part of this momentous journey and support the GovState Jaguars!