Davis Wade Stadium at Scott Field holds a special place in college football history. As I walked through its gates, I felt the weight of over a century of tradition. This iconic venue has been home to the Mississippi State Bulldogs since 1914, making it one of the oldest stadiums in the country.
The stadium’s blend of historic charm and modern amenities creates an unforgettable gameday experience. From the moment I stepped inside, I was struck by the electric atmosphere. The roar of the crowd, the clanging of cowbells, and the sea of maroon and white all come together to form a uniquely Mississippi State ambiance.
What really stood out to me was how Davis Wade Stadium has evolved over the years while still keeping its core identity. Recent renovations have added new seating and improved facilities, but the spirit of Scott Field remains unchanged. It’s a place where memories are made and Bulldog pride runs deep.
Key Takeaways
- Davis Wade Stadium blends rich history with modern amenities for an exciting gameday experience
- The stadium’s unique atmosphere features passionate fans and time-honored traditions
- Recent upgrades have enhanced the venue while preserving its historic character
Historical Backdrop
Davis Wade Stadium at Scott Field has a rich history spanning over a century. I’ll take you through its origins, major changes, and the people who shaped its legacy. This iconic college football venue has seen many transformations since its early days.
Origins of Scott Field
Scott Field first opened its gates in 1914. I find it amazing that it’s now the second-oldest stadium in college football! The field got its name from Olympic sprinter Don Scott, who was a star athlete at Mississippi State. Back then, it was just a simple field with wooden bleachers. Can you imagine watching a game there? It must have been so different from today’s experience!
The stadium’s first game was a big win for Mississippi State. They beat Marion Military Institute 54-0 on October 3, 1914. What a way to start! In those early years, the venue was called New Athletic Field. It’s cool to think about how much has changed since then.
Renovations and Expansions
Over the years, I’ve seen Davis Wade Stadium grow and change a lot. One of the biggest upgrades happened in the 1930s. The Works Progress Administration (WPA) helped build new concrete stands. This was a huge deal for the stadium!
More recent renovations have really transformed the place:
- 2000-2002: Added luxury suites and club seating
- 2012-2014: Major $75 million expansion
- 2014: North end zone addition with more seating and a new scoreboard
These changes have made the stadium bigger and better for fans. Now it can hold over 61,000 people! It’s come a long way from those wooden bleachers.
Namesakes and Legacy
The stadium’s name honors two important figures. I mentioned Don Scott earlier – he’s the “Scott” in Scott Field. The “Davis Wade” part comes from Floyd Davis Wade Sr. He was a big supporter of Mississippi State University.
In 2001, the name officially changed to Davis Wade Stadium at Scott Field. I think it’s great that they kept both names to honor the past and the present. The stadium has become a symbol of Mississippi State’s football tradition.
Today, it’s known for being super loud during games. The cowbells that fans ring are a big part of that! It’s a unique tradition that really sets Davis Wade Stadium apart from other college football venues.
Stadium Specifications
Davis Wade Stadium has some cool features that make it a great place to watch football. I’ll tell you about the seating, field, and amenities that make game days special.
Seating and Capacity
The stadium can hold a lot of fans! It has 60,311 seats total. I love how the upper deck gives a bird’s eye view of the action. The bleachers in the lower sections put you right next to the field.
I think it’s neat how they’ve expanded over the years. They’ve added more seats but kept the classic feel. The layout makes it easy to see the game from any spot.
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Some seats have backs, which is comfy for long games. Others are bench-style, which lets you squeeze in tight for big matchups.
Field and Surface
The field at Davis Wade is top-notch. It’s covered in Bermudagrass, which stays green and cushiony all season. I like how it looks on TV and in person.
The grass gives players good traction. It also helps prevent injuries. The grounds crew keeps it in great shape.
The field is named Scott Field, after an old athletic director. It’s cool how they honor the history while having a modern surface.
Luxury Suites and Concessions
If you want to splurge, the luxury suites are awesome. They have comfy seats, TVs, and great views. It’s like watching from your living room, but better!
The concessions are tasty. I always grab a hot dog and some nachos. There are stands all over, so lines move fast.
Restrooms are plentiful and clean. You won’t miss much of the game waiting in line. The whole setup makes for a fun, convenient day at the stadium.
Athletic Excellence
Davis Wade Stadium has been the stage for many incredible athletic achievements over the years. I’ve seen some amazing performances and milestones that have left me in awe. Let me tell you about a few that stand out in my mind.
Home of the Bulldogs
The Mississippi State Bulldogs have called Davis Wade Stadium home since 1914. I love how the team has grown alongside the stadium. They’ve become a force to be reckoned with in the SEC.
The Bulldogs have had some great seasons here. I remember when they went undefeated at home in 2014. The atmosphere was electric!
Head coaches like Mike Leach have brought new energy to the program. I’ve seen how their strategies have pushed the team to new heights.
Record-Breaking Games
I’ve witnessed some incredible record-breaking games at Davis Wade Stadium. The Bulldogs have set and broken many NCAA and SEC records here.
One game that stands out was in 2014. Dak Prescott, a true football star, set the school record for total offense in a single game. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time!
There have been other thrilling moments too. Like when the Bulldogs upset #8 LSU in 2014. The crowd went wild! It’s games like these that make Davis Wade Stadium such a special place.
Distinguished Alumni
Davis Wade Stadium has been the training ground for many NFL stars. I’m always proud to see Bulldogs alumni making their mark in the pros.
Players like Dak Prescott, Fletcher Cox, and Jeffery Simmons got their start here. They’ve gone on to have amazing careers in the NFL.
It’s not just about football though. The stadium is named after Olympic runner Donald Scott. His legacy reminds me of the well-rounded athletic excellence fostered here.
I love seeing how the traditions and spirit of Davis Wade Stadium continue to inspire new generations of athletes.
Fan Experience
The fan experience at Davis Wade Stadium is electric. From lively tailgating to unique traditions, there’s something special for every Mississippi State fan. Let’s take a closer look at what makes gameday so memorable.
Tailgating at The Junction
I love hanging out at The Junction before games. It’s the heart of Mississippi State’s tailgating scene. Fans set up tents, grills, and TVs as early as Friday night. The smell of barbecue fills the air.
You’ll see lots of maroon and white everywhere. People are friendly and often share food with their neighbors. Kids play catch while adults chat about the upcoming game.
I always bring my cowbell to get in the spirit. The sound of clanging bells grows as kickoff gets closer. It’s a great way to pump up the crowd before heading into the stadium.
Game Day Traditions
The Dawg Walk is one of my favorite traditions. Players and coaches walk through The Junction to the stadium. Fans line up to cheer them on. It’s awesome to see the team up close.
Inside the stadium, the cowbell tradition continues. It’s the loudest stadium in America when those bells get going. The energy is amazing.
The band plays the fight song after touchdowns. Everyone joins in, ringing their cowbells. It’s a rush to be part of such a unified crowd.
Community and Spirit
There’s a strong sense of community at Davis Wade Stadium. I feel connected to other fans, even if I don’t know them. We’re all there for the same reason – to cheer on our Bulldogs.
The stadium staff is friendly and helpful. They make sure everyone has a safe, fun time. The food options are great too. I love grabbing a hot dog and some popcorn during halftime.
After big wins, fans often celebrate on the field. It’s cool to walk on the same turf as the players. The spirit and pride of Mississippi State really shine through on gamedays.
Technological Innovations
Davis Wade Stadium has some really cool tech that makes game day awesome. I’m excited to tell you about the big video board and sound system that get fans pumped up.
The Jumbotron and Video Board
The huge video board at Davis Wade Stadium blows me away every time I see it. It’s an HD display that shows crystal-clear replays and stats.
I love how it keeps me in the loop with live game updates and player info. The scoreboard part is easy to read, even from the nosebleed seats.
During timeouts, they play fun videos and crowd games on the big screen. It really keeps the energy up throughout the game.
Stadium Sound System
The sound system at Davis Wade Stadium is no joke. It’s a pro-level setup that makes every play call and announcement crystal clear.
I can hear everything perfectly, whether I’m right by the field or up in the top rows. The speakers are placed just right to cover the whole stadium.
When the team makes a big play, the sound system blasts the fight song. It gets me on my feet cheering every time.
They’re careful about the volume, though. There’s a sound policy to keep things fun but not too loud for folks’ ears.
Recent Developments
Davis Wade Stadium has seen some exciting changes lately. I’ve noticed big upgrades to the facilities and new construction that’s really improved the game day experience for fans like me.
Latest Renovation Efforts
I was thrilled to hear about the $75 million expansion and renovation of Davis Wade Stadium. The project increased capacity to over 61,000 seats, which means more of us can cheer on the Bulldogs!
One of my favorite additions is the new premium seating options. They added:
- 236 seats in the loge section
- 288 seats in 22 new suites
- 60 field-level seats
The north end zone got a major facelift too. I love how it’s improved the overall look of the stadium.
Addition of New Athletic Facilities
I’m impressed by the new athletic facilities that have popped up around Davis Wade Stadium. The Frank Turman Fieldhouse got some nice upgrades that I think will really help our players.
The Leo W. Seal M-Club Centre is another great addition. It provides a special space for former athletes to gather on game days.
I’ve heard rumors about more changes coming soon. Mississippi State is asking fans for input on future renovations. I can’t wait to see what they come up with next!
Beyond The Game
Davis Wade Stadium’s impact extends far beyond football Saturdays. It plays a big role in the local community and supports education at Mississippi State.
Community Engagement
I’ve seen how Davis Wade Stadium brings people together. On game days, fans from all over flock to Starkville, MS to cheer on the Bulldogs. But the stadium hosts other events too.
Local high schools sometimes play big games here. I love seeing young athletes get to compete on the same field as their heroes. The stadium also holds concerts and gatherings that unite the community.
During tough times, Davis Wade has been a beacon of hope. After natural disasters, it’s served as a relief center. I’m proud of how it supports Starkville beyond just football.
Educational Impact
Davis Wade Stadium isn’t just about sports – it boosts education too. I’m impressed by how it helps Mississippi State students learn and grow.
Many students work at the stadium, gaining real-world experience. They help with operations, marketing, and more. It’s like a giant classroom on game days.
The stadium also brings in money for the school. Ticket sales and TV deals help fund academic programs. Plus, big games put Mississippi State in the national spotlight. This can attract new students and boost the school’s reputation.
I’ve even heard of professors using the stadium in lessons. From engineering to business, it offers real-world examples across many fields.
Stadium Atmosphere and Culture
The atmosphere at Davis Wade Stadium is electric. Fans bring infectious energy that makes games unforgettable. I’ve experienced the passion firsthand and heard amazing stories from others.
Significance in College Football
Davis Wade Stadium is one of the loudest in America. The cowbells start ringing hours before kickoff. It’s a tradition that gives Mississippi State a real home-field advantage.
The stadium has grown a lot since it opened in 1914. New skyboxes and balconies offer great views. The concrete stands shake when fans get rowdy.
I love how the endzone fills up with students. They create an intimidating “Bully’s Bullpen” for opposing teams.
Personal Experiences and Testimonials
I’ll never forget my first game at Davis Wade. The noise was incredible! A friend told me his ears rang for days after.
One fan shared: “The atmosphere is unlike anywhere else. When we score, it’s pandemonium!”
Another said: “I’ve been to games across the SEC. Davis Wade’s energy is special.”
The passion is contagious. Even on TV, you can feel the excitement through the screen.
Frequently Asked Questions
I get a lot of questions about Davis Wade Stadium. Here are some common ones about what to bring, seating options, entry times, family areas, food, and parking.
What items are prohibited from being brought into Davis Wade Stadium?
Weapons, alcohol, and outside food or drinks aren’t allowed. Large bags, backpacks, and coolers are also banned. I recommend bringing only small purses or clear bags to speed up entry. Umbrellas and noisemakers like cowbells are okay, but check the current policies before game day.
Are there any special amenities or features for premium seating at Davis Wade Stadium?
Yes, premium seats have some nice perks. The club level seats offer climate-controlled lounges, upgraded food options, and cushioned seats. Suites have private restrooms and TVs. Premium areas also provide better views of the field.
How early can you enter the stadium before a game starts?
Gates usually open 2 hours before kickoff. I like to arrive early to avoid lines and enjoy the pre-game atmosphere. You can watch team warmups and the band’s performance if you get there with plenty of time to spare.
Are there any family-friendly sections or areas at Davis Wade Stadium?
While there’s no designated family section, the upper deck areas tend to be more family-friendly. The northeast corner has a fun kids’ zone with games and activities. I’ve found most areas of the stadium to be welcoming for families on game days.
What are the food and drink options available inside Davis Wade Stadium?
You’ll find typical stadium fare like hot dogs, nachos, and popcorn. There are also some local specialties like barbecue and fried catfish. Coca-Cola products and bottled water are available at concession stands. Premium areas offer a wider selection of food and drinks.
Can you recommend a good parking area near Davis Wade Stadium?
The closest parking is reserved for season ticket holders. I suggest the commuter lots on campus, which are a short walk away. There’s also a shuttle service from downtown Starkville. Arrive early on game days, as spaces fill up fast.
