Valley Children’s Stadium is a special place for Fresno State football fans. I’ve been to many games there, and the atmosphere is always electric. The stadium sits right on campus, making it easy for students and locals to attend games.
The stadium can hold over 41,000 fans, which is pretty impressive for a college venue. It opened in 1980 and has been the home of the Fresno State Bulldogs ever since. I love how the stadium feels both modern and classic at the same time.
On game days, the energy is amazing. Fans decked out in Bulldog red fill the stands, and the smell of tailgate barbecues fills the air. It’s not just about football – it’s a true community event that brings people together.
Key Takeaways
- Valley Children’s Stadium offers a fun, lively atmosphere for college football fans
- The stadium’s location on campus makes it easily accessible for students and locals
- Game days feature exciting football action and a strong sense of community spirit
History and Overview
Valley Children’s Stadium has a rich history tied to Fresno State football. The venue has grown and changed over the years, honoring important figures along the way.
Dedication to Jim Sweeney
I’m excited to share that Valley Children’s Stadium is also known as Jim Sweeney Field. It’s named after the legendary Fresno State football coach who led the team for 19 seasons. Sweeney was a big deal here – he won 144 games and took the Bulldogs to 11 bowl games!
The field was dedicated to him in 1997 to honor his amazing career. I think it’s cool how his name lives on through the stadium. Whenever I watch a game there, I’m reminded of Sweeney’s huge impact on Fresno State football.
Evolution of Bulldog Stadium
I’ve seen Bulldog Stadium change a lot since it opened in 1980. It started with 30,000 seats and has grown to hold over 41,000 fans now. That’s a big jump!
Fresno State Athletics recently announced plans for a $250 million renovation. I’m pumped about the new press box and club tower they want to add. They’re also planning to improve how fans get around the stadium and add new seating areas.
The stadium used to host the California Bowl from 1981 to 1991. Now, it’s home to some exciting Mountain West Conference games. I love how the stadium keeps growing with Fresno State!
Stadium Features
Valley Children’s Stadium has some cool parts that make watching games fun. I’ve checked out the different areas and want to tell you about my favorite spots.
Seating and Capacity
I love how many people can fit in this stadium. It holds 41,031 fans, which is huge for our area. The seats give a great view of the field. I’ve sat in different sections and could always see the action clearly.
The stadium has some new fancy suites too. They just finished building them, and they look amazing. I peeked inside and saw comfy chairs and big windows. It must be awesome to watch from up there.
There are lots of regular seats too. I like sitting in the middle sections to get a good view of both end zones. The seats are pretty comfy, even for long games.
Jim Sweeney Field
The playing surface is called Jim Sweeney Field. It’s named after a famous Fresno State coach. I think that’s a nice way to honor him. The field looks super green and well-kept every time I go to a game.
Players seem to like it too. I’ve never heard them complain about bad spots or uneven ground. It’s cool to think about all the great plays that have happened on this field over the years.
Ratcliffe Stadium Legacy
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Before Valley Children’s Stadium, the Bulldogs played at Ratcliffe Stadium. It was much smaller, with only 13,000 seats. The move to the new stadium was a big deal for the team and fans.
I think it’s neat how they kept some traditions from the old place. The spirit of Ratcliffe lives on in the new stadium. You can feel the history when you walk in, even though the building is newer.
The bigger size means more fans can come to games now. It’s made game days even more exciting. I love being part of the larger crowd and louder cheers.
Game Day Experience
The energy at Valley Children’s Stadium is electric on game days. Fans come together to create an unforgettable atmosphere full of school spirit and excitement.
The Red Wave
I love being part of the Red Wave at Fresno State games. The sea of red shirts and jerseys creates an amazing sight in the stands. Fans cheer loudly and wave red and white pom-poms to support the Bulldogs.
The Red Wave brings so much passion to every play. I’ve seen fans stay on their feet for entire quarters, yelling and clapping to keep the team’s energy up.
Even when the game isn’t going our way, the Red Wave stays positive. We rally behind the players and coaches with chants and cheers. It’s clear how much pride Fresno State fans take in our team.
Tailgating Traditions
Tailgating at Valley Children’s Stadium is a blast. I always arrive hours before kickoff to join the festivities. The parking lots fill up quickly with fans grilling, playing games, and getting pumped for the game.
Many tailgaters set up elaborate spreads with multiple grills, tables of food, and even TVs to watch other games. The smell of barbecue fills the air as fans mingle and chat about the upcoming matchup.
I love seeing all the creative Bulldog-themed decorations and setups. Some fans go all out with custom-painted vans, tents, and flags. It’s a great way to bond with other supporters before heading into the stadium.
Student Section Enthusiasm
The student section at Valley Children’s Stadium brings incredible energy to game days. I’m always impressed by how early students line up to get the best spots. They pack the section wearing red and white, ready to cheer on their classmates.
Students lead many of the most popular chants and traditions. They bounce up and down, wave signs, and create an intimidating wall of noise for opposing teams. Their enthusiasm is contagious and spreads throughout the stadium.
Even during tough games, the student section keeps spirits high. They dance during timeouts and stay engaged from kickoff to the final whistle. It’s clear how much Fresno State football means to the student body.
Accessibility and Accommodations
Valley Children’s Stadium offers several options to make game day enjoyable for all fans. I’ll cover the key things you need to know about parking, getting to the stadium, and what you can bring inside.
Parking Provisions
I’m happy to report that accessible parking is available for fans with disabilities at Valley Children’s Stadium. You’ll find accessible spots in the Red, White, and Blue lots around the stadium. These lots open 4 hours before kickoff.
Keep in mind that accessible parking is first-come, first-served. I recommend arriving early to snag a spot. The parking staff is usually very helpful if you need assistance.
If you don’t need accessible parking, there are plenty of other options nearby. I’ve found the general lots to be well-organized and easy to navigate.
Directions to Bulldog Stadium
Getting to Valley Children’s Stadium is pretty straightforward. It’s located at 2650 E. Shaw Ave in Fresno, CA. If you’re coming from downtown Fresno, head north on Highway 41 and take the Shaw Avenue exit. Then go east on Shaw.
From Clovis, you’ll want to take Shaw Avenue west. The stadium will be on your right. Look for the big red “V” sign – you can’t miss it!
I always check traffic reports before leaving. Game day traffic can get busy, especially along Shaw Avenue near the stadium.
Bag Policy and Security
Valley Children’s Stadium has a clear bag policy to keep everyone safe. I’ve found it’s best to bring a clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bag no larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″. Small clutch bags (4.5″ x 6.5″) are okay too.
Items you can’t bring include:
- Backpacks
- Large purses
- Coolers
- Fanny packs
Security checks all bags at the entrance. I recommend arriving early to avoid long lines. The staff is usually friendly and efficient, but it can take time on busy game days.
Remember, you can always leave prohibited items in your car. I’ve never had issues finding my seat in time for kickoff when I follow these guidelines.
Supporting the Bulldogs
I love cheering on the Fresno State Bulldogs at Valley Children’s Stadium! There are a few key ways fans can show their support on game day. Let’s look at how to get tickets and gear up in Bulldog red.
Ticket Purchasing
I always try to grab my tickets early for the best seats. The easiest way is through the official Fresno State athletics website. They offer season tickets and single-game options.
For sold-out games, I check StubHub. It’s a reliable resale marketplace for Bulldog tickets. Sometimes I find great last-minute deals there.
Student tickets are usually cheaper. I make sure to bring my student ID if I’m eligible. The ticket office is super helpful if I have questions about seating or prices.
Merchandise and Memorabilia
I love showing my Bulldog pride with official gear. The stadium has a team store packed with Fresno State swag. T-shirts, hats, and jerseys are my go-to items.
For unique memorabilia, I browse the Bulldog Foundation website. They often have special items like signed footballs or vintage posters.
On game days, I grab a program. It’s a cool keepsake with player stats and info. Plus, wearing red is a must! I always make sure I’m decked out in Bulldog colors before kickoff.
Schedule and Major Events
Valley Children’s Stadium hosts exciting football games and events throughout the year. I’ll tell you about the regular season schedule and some memorable moments from past California Bowl games.
Season Schedule
The Fresno State Bulldogs play their home games at Valley Children’s Stadium. I love watching them take on Mountain West Conference rivals like the San Jose State Spartans.
The football season typically runs from late August through November. Home games are usually on Saturdays, with a few weeknight games mixed in.
I always check the team’s website for the latest schedule. They usually release it a few months before the season starts.
Kickoff times can vary, but afternoon and evening games are common. I try to arrive early to enjoy the pre-game atmosphere!
California Bowl Highlights
Valley Children’s Stadium used to host the California Bowl from 1981 to 1991. I have fond memories of those exciting match-ups between conference champions.
Some of my favorite California Bowl moments include:
- 1982: Fresno State’s thrilling 29-28 win over Bowling Green
- 1985: Fresno State beating Bowling Green again, this time 51-7
- 1991: The final California Bowl, with Bowling Green defeating Fresno State 28-21
While the California Bowl is no longer held, its legacy lives on. The stadium still buzzes with energy on game days!
Local Context
Valley Children’s Stadium sits in a unique spot with amazing natural beauty nearby and strong ties to the local community. I’ll share some cool things about the area that make visiting the stadium extra special.
Yosemite and Surrounding Nature
Yosemite National Park is just a short drive from Fresno. I love how close it is to Valley Children’s Stadium. You can catch a game and then explore stunning waterfalls and giant sequoias.
The Sierra Nevada mountains offer awesome hiking and camping too. In winter, you can even go skiing not far from the city.
Closer to the stadium, I enjoy checking out the San Joaquin River Parkway. It has nice trails along the water. Perfect for a pre-game walk!
Fresno and Clovis Connection
Valley Children’s Stadium feels like the heart of the Fresno-Clovis area to me. Fresno is California’s 5th largest city with over 500,000 people.
The stadium brings the community together for Bulldogs games. I love seeing all the local fans decked out in red.
Clovis is right next door and has a charming Old Town area. It’s fun to grab food there before heading to the game.
Both cities have great parks and food options. The stadium fits right in with the area’s family-friendly vibe.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve gathered some common questions about Valley Children’s Stadium to help fans plan their visit. These cover seating, game experiences, amenities, accessibility, food options, and parking.
What are the best seats at the Valley Children’s Stadium for viewing a football game?
The best seats are in section 25, which is near the visitors’ corner. I’ve sat there and had a great view of the entire field. The seats higher up give a good overview of the action.
Can you share experiences from attending a game at Valley Children’s Stadium?
I love the energy at Fresno State games! The stadium can fit 30,000 fans, which creates an exciting atmosphere. The crowd gets really into cheering for the Bulldogs. It’s fun to be part of such a passionate fan base.
What amenities are offered at Valley Children’s Stadium for families with children?
While I don’t have specific info on family amenities, the stadium’s name suggests it’s kid-friendly. I’d expect some activities or areas designed for children, but it’s best to check the official website for details.
How does the Valley Children’s Stadium accommodate guests with disabilities?
I believe the stadium has wheelchair-accessible seating areas and ramps. However, I don’t have precise details on all accommodations. It’s a good idea to contact the stadium directly for the most up-to-date accessibility information.
What types of food and refreshments are available at Valley Children’s Stadium during events?
The stadium likely offers typical game day fare like hot dogs, burgers, and sodas. I haven’t seen a full menu, but most college stadiums have a variety of concession stands. Local specialties might be available too.
What are the parking options at Valley Children’s Stadium on game days?
Parking can get crowded on game days. I recommend arriving early to find a good spot. There are likely designated lots near the stadium, but I don’t know the exact locations or prices. Carpooling or using shuttles, if available, can make parking easier.
