Jerry E. Apple Stadium
The May 22 groundbreaking ceremony at Jerry E. Apple Stadium started the clock to complete the major enhancement project that would transform the facility and make it a place for all ’Roos, their families, and guests.
Crews from Hellas Construction worked seven days a week over the summer to install the artificial turf field, a fitness track, and updated visitor stands. Stadium lighting was installed by Nema3 Electric. At the football season home opener on September 10, the College welcomed donors and friends for a special celebration and a kickoff to a new era for the sports facility.
The updates to Apple Stadium not only elevate the ’Roo football experience, but also open the gates for activities ranging from individual fitness to competitive intramural sports. This high-impact project was made possible by the philanthropy of many generous donors.
| Stadium Facts | |
|---|---|
| Jerry E. Apple Stadium is named for the late Jerry Apple ’60, who, along with his wife Joy, supported Austin College athletics and made generous gifts toward many other campus initiatives. | There are 64 light fixtures in the stadium with directional lighting on the field, track, and stands. When all the super-efficient LED bulbs are on, the lights supply close to 200,000 lumens. For reference, a typical kitchen fixture illuminates at 60 to 80 lumens. |
| 15,000 cubic yards of topsoil were removed to prepare for the artificial turf field. That makes about a 30’ x 80’ heap of excellent soil for future use on campus. | Austin College trustee Joy Apple joined the ’Roo team captains for the coin toss at the first football game in the enhanced stadium. |