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Edinboro University President Frank G. Pogue
has announced the University has approved major renovations at Sox
Harrison Stadium. The plan, which calls for artificial turf, a
lighting system, and a new scoreboard, was approved by Edinboro’s
Student Government Association earlier this week. 
“I firmly believe this is another
project that is in line with our housing renovations, the
expansion of the University Center, and the renovation of Academy
Hall to maintain Edinboro University’s place as a major
regional resource,” said Dr. Pogue. “Most important,
this reaffirms our commitment to enhancing diversity and community
outreach, making another campus facility available for more
individuals.”
Pogue noted that improvements to Sox Harrison
Stadium have been discussed for several years.
“It is gratifying to see
different entities at the University work together to make this
possible,” he said. “That includes the Finance and
Administration Office, the student government leadership, along
with the Athletic Department staff. This had been in the talking
stages for several years, but over the past few months the issue
was thoroughly explored to reach this decision.”
“The ability to expand our
programmatic offerings for the student body is what made this
project so attractive to us,” stated SGA President Josh
Novak. “This benefits the entire campus community, and I
think is why it was so widely supported by the Student Government
Association. This is an idea whose time had come. This continues
to improve the quality of life for Edinboro students, and will be
another recruiting tool for the University.”
Director of Athletics Bruce Baumgartner said
the University is still talking with several artificial turf
firms, and the field will be similar to those installed in recent
years at other area universities and high schools.
He emphasized the installation of lights was a
major part of the package.
“This project isn’t just
about a field for athletics,” Baumgartner stressed. “The
driving force behind the entire project is for Sox Harrison
Stadium to become a multi-use facility.”
Baumgartner said the project should be
completed by the fall semester. Sox Harrison Stadium will then be
used for a variety of campus and community events, including
classes, recreational and club sports, and Homecoming events. The
University might also attract PIAA playoff contests, Baumgartner
said.
If all goes according to plan, bids will be
awarded soon and work will begin this summer, with the renovations
to Sox Harrison Stadium completed in time for the football season
home opener against West Chester on Saturday, September 1.
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