As I approached Brigham Field at Huskie Stadium, I couldn’t help but feel excited about the experience ahead. This college football stadium has been the heart of Northern Illinois University’s athletic spirit since 1965. With a capacity of 23,595 fans, Huskie Stadium offers an intimate yet electrifying atmosphere for watching the NIU Huskies compete in the Mid-American Conference.
I was eager to explore the stadium’s features, including the Yordon Athletic Center in the north end zone, which opened in 2007. This addition not only enhanced the stadium’s appearance but also improved the overall fan experience. As I walked around, I noticed the rich history surrounding me, from the first intercollegiate men’s soccer match on AstroTurf in 1969 to the countless football games that have thrilled spectators over the decades.
Key Takeaways
- Huskie Stadium offers an intimate setting for exciting college football games.
- The stadium has undergone renovations to improve fan experience and team facilities.
- Huskie Stadium boasts a rich history of memorable athletic events since its opening in 1965.
History and Significance
Brigham Field at Huskie Stadium has a rich history tied to Northern Illinois University (NIU). It’s named after a key figure and has seen many changes over the years.
Naming Heritage
The stadium got its name from Robert J. Brigham, a big deal at NIU. I think it’s cool how he wore many hats there. He was a student-athlete, coach, and even ran the whole athletics department!
NIU gave the field his name in 2003. It was a nice way to say thanks for his 50 years of hard work. Brigham really loved the school, and it shows.
Key Milestones
The stadium’s story starts way back in 1965. That’s when they first built it in DeKalb, IL. I find it neat that it was ahead of its time.
In 1969, they put in AstroTurf. It was the first major college in Illinois to do that! Talk about being trendsetters.
They’ve kept making it better over the years. In 2003, they renamed it. Then in 2008, they added the Brigham Family Victory Plaza. It’s a special walkway for athletes near the stadium.
Stadium Features
Huskie Stadium has some cool parts that make it special. I’ll tell you about how it looks, where people sit, and what the field is like.
Architectural Design
I love how Huskie Stadium stands out on NIU’s campus. It has a neat red brick exterior that matches other buildings nearby. The stadium opened way back in 1965, but it’s had some updates over the years to keep it modern.
One of the coolest additions is the Yordon Athletic Center in the north end zone. It gives the stadium a more complete look. The press box on the west side is pretty impressive too. It has a sleek design that fits in well with the rest of the stadium.
Seating and Capacity
When I visit Huskie Stadium, I’m always impressed by how many fans it can hold. Right now, it can seat 23,595 people. That’s a good size for a college stadium.
The seats are mostly bleacher-style, which is pretty common for college football. But don’t worry – they’re not uncomfortable. The best seats are on the west side, where you can see the whole field clearly.
I think it’s interesting that they once expanded the stadium to fit nearly 31,000 people back in 1982. Even though it’s smaller now, it still gets pretty loud on game days!
Playing Surface
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The field at Huskie Stadium has an interesting history. It was actually the first major college stadium in Illinois to get AstroTurf back in 1969. That was a big deal back then!
Now, the field uses FieldTurf, which is more modern and safer for players. It’s called Brigham Field, named after Dr. Robert J. Brigham who did a lot for NIU sports.
I really like how the field looks with its bright green turf and the NIU logo at midfield. It’s a great surface for football and other sports too.
Athletic Programs
Brigham Field at Huskie Stadium is home to exciting athletic programs. The NIU Huskies compete in various sports, with football taking center stage. I’ve seen firsthand how the facilities support student-athletes in their pursuit of excellence.
Football Prowess
The NIU Huskies football team is a powerhouse in the Mid-American Conference. I’ve watched them play many thrilling games at Huskie Stadium. The team has a strong winning tradition and has made several bowl game appearances.
Some key points about the football program:
- Competes in NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS)
- Multiple MAC championships
- Produced NFL players
- Passionate fan base that fills the stadium on game days
I love the electric atmosphere during big rivalry games. The roar of the crowd when the Huskies score a touchdown is unforgettable!
Additional Sports
While football is the main attraction, Huskie Stadium supports other sports too. I’ve enjoyed watching:
- Track and field events on the surrounding track
- Soccer matches on the field
- Intramural sports competitions
The NIU athletic department also excels in:
- Wrestling
- Baseball
- Basketball
- Volleyball
These teams use the stadium for training and some events. It’s great to see so many student-athletes benefiting from the facilities.
Training and Facilities
The Yordon Athletic Center in the north end zone is a hub for athlete development. I’m impressed by the resources available to NIU student-athletes:
- State-of-the-art weight room
- Sports medicine and rehabilitation areas
- Academic support services
- Team meeting rooms
- Coaches’ offices
The artificial turf field allows for year-round use. I’ve seen teams practicing in all weather conditions. The indoor facilities are crucial during harsh Illinois winters.
NIU clearly invests in its athletic programs. The top-notch facilities at Huskie Stadium give athletes the tools they need to succeed on and off the field.
Fan Experience
Huskie Stadium offers a fun and exciting atmosphere for fans on game days. The energy is electric, with plenty to see and do beyond just watching the game. Let me tell you about what it’s like to attend a game at this Northern Illinois University landmark.
Game Day Atmosphere
I love the buzz around campus on game days. Tailgating starts early, with fans grilling and playing games in the parking lots. The Convocation Center next door hosts pre-game events too.
As kickoff approaches, I join the sea of red and black streaming into the stadium. The band plays fight songs and the cheerleaders pump up the crowd. When the Huskies take the field, the roar is deafening.
During the game, I love the student section’s energy. They’re on their feet the whole time, cheering and doing coordinated chants. The mascot Victor E. Huskie runs around getting everyone fired up too.
Attendance Records
NIU has some impressive attendance numbers. The stadium holds 23,595 fans at full capacity. I was there for the record-setting game in 2003 when 28,018 packed in to see NIU take on Iowa State.
Big games against MAC rivals like Toledo or Western Michigan usually draw the largest crowds. The home opener each season is another hot ticket, with fans excited for football’s return.
I’ve noticed attendance has dipped a bit in recent years. But for key games, the place still fills up nicely. The intimate size makes for a great atmosphere even when it’s not totally full.
Facilities for Supporters
I find Huskie Stadium pretty comfortable and convenient as a fan. Parking is plentiful in the lots surrounding the stadium. There are plenty of concession stands with typical stadium fare like hot dogs and nachos.
The bathrooms can get crowded at halftime, but the lines move quickly. The seats are basic bleachers, but most have backs which is nice. I like to bring a cushion for extra comfort.
The videoboard in the north end zone is a great addition. It shows replays and stats to keep fans informed. On chilly late-season games, I appreciate the heated areas under the stands to warm up.
Notable Events
Huskie Stadium has seen its fair share of exciting moments over the years. I’ve been lucky enough to witness some truly unforgettable games and seasons at this historic venue.
Historic Matches
I’ll never forget the 2003 game against Maryland. The Huskies pulled off a huge 20-13 upset over the #15 ranked Terrapins. It was NIU’s first-ever win against a ranked opponent. The crowd went wild!
Another classic was the 2013 matchup with Iowa. Jordan Lynch put on a show, rushing for 119 yards and 3 touchdowns as NIU beat Iowa 30-27. It was their first win over a Big Ten team in 25 years.
The 2014 game against Northwestern was a thriller too. After trailing 23-7, NIU stormed back to win 23-15. I was on the edge of my seat the whole second half.
Memorable Seasons
The 2003 season stands out in my mind. NIU started 7-0, including that big Maryland win. We cracked the Top 25 rankings for the first time in school history.
2012 was magical too. The Huskies went 12-2 and made it to the Orange Bowl. Jordan Lynch was unstoppable that year, setting all kinds of records.
I loved the 2018 season as well. We beat Nebraska for the first time ever, winning 21-17 in Lincoln. Then we capped it off by winning the MAC championship. What a year!
Leadership and Legacy
Bob Brigham played a huge role in shaping Huskie Stadium. His impact went way beyond the football field. Let’s look at the key people and changes that defined this stadium’s history.
Prominent Figures
Bob Brigham was the heart and soul of NIU athletics for 50 years. I think it’s amazing how many hats he wore. He started as a student-athlete, then became an assistant coach, head coach, and Director of Athletics.
Later, he even served as Special Assistant to the President. Talk about dedication! Brigham retired in 2001, but his legacy lives on. The field at Huskie Stadium now bears his name – Brigham Field. It’s a fitting tribute to a true Huskie legend.
Structural Growth
Under Brigham’s leadership, I saw Huskie Stadium grow and change. The stadium first opened its doors in 1965. Since then, it’s had some cool upgrades.
One big change was the Yordon Athletic Center in the north end zone. It opened in 2007 and really changed how the stadium looks and feels. The renovations even lowered the seating capacity to 23,595. I think it’s neat how they’ve balanced modernizing while keeping the stadium’s character.
Frequently Asked Questions
Huskie Stadium offers fans a range of seating options and amenities. I’ll cover some key details about the stadium’s features, capacity, and game day experience.
What are the best seating options at Huskie Stadium for a great view of the game?
I think the best seats are in the west grandstand. You get a great view of the action and can see the video board easily. The upper deck on that side also gives a nice overhead perspective of the whole field.
Can you tell me the seating capacity of Huskie Stadium?
Huskie Stadium can hold about 24,000 fans. It’s not the biggest college stadium, but I find it creates an intimate atmosphere where you feel close to the action no matter where you sit.
What unique features does Huskie Stadium boast?
One cool feature is Brigham Field, named after Robert J. Brigham who was involved with NIU athletics for 50 years. The stadium also has a nice video board that shows replays and stats during the game.
Does Huskie Stadium have natural grass or artificial turf?
Huskie Stadium has artificial turf. I like how it looks bright green on TV and holds up well in different weather conditions. The players seem to enjoy the consistent surface too.
How does Huskie Stadium compare in age with other FBS college football stadiums?
Huskie Stadium opened in 1965, so it’s about average age for an FBS stadium. Many stadiums were built in the 1920s-30s, while others are much newer. I think Huskie Stadium has aged well with some nice upgrades over the years.
What amenities are available at Huskie Stadium for football fans?
You’ll find typical stadium food like hot dogs and nachos at the concession stands. There are restrooms throughout the concourse. I really like that there’s plenty of parking nearby, which makes getting in and out pretty convenient on game days.
