Joan C. Edwards Stadium is a hidden gem for college football fans. As I walked into the stadium for the first time, I was struck by its welcoming atmosphere and unique design. The stadium’s main entrance features a moving memorial to the 1970 plane crash victims, adding a sense of history and significance to the game day experience.
I found the stadium to be surprisingly comfortable and well-equipped. The seats offer great views of the action, and there are plenty of food options to choose from. I was impressed by the attention to detail in the stadium’s construction and amenities. It’s clear that Marshall University has put a lot of thought into creating a top-notch facility for fans and players alike.
My visit to Joan C. Edwards Stadium was more than just watching a football game. It was a chance to immerse myself in the spirit of Marshall University and the Huntington community. The energy of the crowd and the pride in the Thundering Herd team were infectious. I left feeling like I’d been part of something special.
Key Takeaways
- The stadium offers a comfortable experience with great amenities for fans
- There’s a strong sense of history and community spirit at Joan C. Edwards Stadium
- The game day atmosphere is exciting and welcoming for visitors
History and Background
Joan C. Edwards Stadium has a rich history tied to Marshall University football. The stadium’s development marks a major shift for the Thundering Herd program. Let’s look at how it came to be and some key moments along the way.
From Fairfield Stadium to Joan C. Edwards Stadium
I remember when Marshall played at old Fairfield Stadium. It was small and outdated. The team needed a better home. In 1991, the new Marshall University Stadium opened. What a change! It had more seats, better facilities, and a real college football feel.
The move came at a great time. Marshall was becoming a powerhouse in NCAA Division I-AA (now FCS). They won the national title in 1992. The new stadium gave fans a great place to watch the team’s success.
Naming and Dedication
In 2003, the stadium got a new name. It became Joan C. Edwards Stadium. This was special. It’s one of only two FBS stadiums named after a woman.
Joan Edwards and her husband James were big Marshall supporters. They gave lots of money to the school. The name honors Joan’s dedication to Marshall. I think it’s a nice tribute to someone who cared so much about the university.
Key Milestones
The stadium has seen many big moments. Here are a few I find noteworthy:
- 1992: First full season in the new stadium
- 1997: Marshall moves up to Division I-A (now FBS)
- 2005: New FieldTurf surface installed
- Multiple conference championship games hosted
The field itself is named James F. Edwards Field. This keeps both Joan and James’s names tied to the stadium. Over the years, they’ve added more seats and improved facilities. It’s now a top-notch place for college football.
Stadium Features and Facilities
Joan C. Edwards Stadium has a lot to offer fans and players alike. From comfy seats to fancy suites, there’s something for everyone. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this place special.
Seating and Capacity
I’m always impressed by how many people can fit in this stadium. It can hold 38,016 fans, which is pretty amazing! The seats are comfortable, and I can see the field well from almost anywhere.
The stadium has grown over time. It started with 30,000 seats back in 1991. Now it’s much bigger, but still feels cozy. I love that there are 300 spots for wheelchairs too. Everyone can enjoy the game here.
One cool thing is that they can add even more seats in the future. They might be able to fit up to 55,000 people someday!
Shewey Athletic Center
The Shewey Athletic Center is a big part of the stadium complex. It’s where a lot of important stuff happens behind the scenes.
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I’ve heard it has offices for coaches and staff. There are also meeting rooms where the team can plan their strategies. It’s like the brain of the whole operation.
I think it’s neat that the players can use this building to prepare for games. It really shows how much Marshall cares about its football program.
Locker Rooms and Training Facility
The locker rooms here are top-notch. Players have plenty of space to get ready for games. I bet it feels great to suit up in such a nice place.
There’s also a training facility where players can work out and stay in shape. It probably has all sorts of equipment to help them get stronger and faster.
I imagine the medical staff has a good setup here too. They need to be able to take care of any injuries quickly.
Indoor Sky Suites and Press Box
One of my favorite parts of the stadium is the indoor sky suites. There are 20 of these fancy rooms where you can watch the game in style. I’d love to try one someday!
The press box is also really impressive. It’s where all the reporters and broadcasters work during games. They have a great view of all the action.
These areas are high up in the stadium, so you can see everything. I bet it’s fun to watch a game from up there.
Concession Areas and Restaurants
When I get hungry during a game, there are plenty of places to grab a bite. The stadium has several concession stands with all the usual game-day foods.
I’ve heard there might be some actual restaurants too, but I’m not sure about that. Either way, you won’t go hungry here.
The food areas are spread out, so you don’t have to walk far to find something tasty. It’s nice not to miss too much of the game when you’re getting snacks.
Game Day Experience
Joan C. Edwards Stadium comes alive on game days. The energy is electric as fans pack the stands to cheer on the Thundering Herd. I’ve experienced some unforgettable moments here that capture the spirit of college football.
Atmosphere and Fans
The atmosphere at Joan C. Edwards Stadium is incredible. Herd fans are passionate and create a sea of green and white. I love how the crowd gets loud on big plays, especially on third downs to rattle opposing offenses.
The stadium holds over 38,000 fans, and it feels packed for big games. Everyone around me is decked out in Marshall gear. I’ve chatted with longtime season ticket holders who have great stories about past games and players.
Between plays, the video board shows highlights and gets fans pumped up. The enthusiasm is contagious – even as a visitor, I find myself caught up in cheering for the Herd.
Tailgating and Entertainment
Tailgating at Marshall is a blast. Fans start setting up early in nearby parking lots and fields. I’ve seen everything from simple grills to elaborate setups with TVs and tents.
The smell of barbecue fills the air. Fans are friendly and often invite passersby to grab a bite. There’s usually cornhole games going on and kids tossing footballs.
Closer to kickoff, entertainment ramps up around the stadium. Face painting, inflatable games, and photo ops with Marco the Bison mascot keep fans of all ages busy. The excitement builds as game time approaches.
The Marshall Marching Band
The Marching Thunder band adds so much to the atmosphere. I love watching them march into the stadium before kickoff. Their pregame show always gets the crowd fired up.
During the game, they keep the energy high with fight songs and popular tunes. The halftime show is a highlight – the formations and music are impressive.
My favorite part is when they play the theme from “Sons of Marshall” after touchdowns. Hearing thousands of fans singing along gives me chills every time.
Student Section and Fan Engagement
The student section brings nonstop energy. They’re on their feet the whole game, starting chants and doing the thunder clap. Their enthusiasm spreads through the whole stadium.
I’ve seen some creative signs and costumes in the student section. They clearly have a lot of fun supporting their team.
The stadium crew does a great job keeping fans engaged. T-shirt tosses, dance cams, and contests during breaks in play keep the atmosphere lively. Special promotions for different games, like Military Appreciation Day, add to the experience.
Even when the game isn’t close, most fans stick around until the end. The sense of community is strong here at Joan C. Edwards Stadium.
Accessibility and Amenities
Joan C. Edwards Stadium offers a range of facilities to make game day enjoyable for all fans. I found the stadium easy to navigate, with plenty of amenities to keep everyone comfortable and entertained.
Parking and Access
Parking at Joan C. Edwards Stadium is convenient, with several lots surrounding the venue. I recommend arriving early to snag a good spot close to the entrance. The main entrance is welcoming, with a touching memorial to the 1970 plane crash victims on the left side.
Getting around inside is a breeze. Wide walkways make it simple to move between sections, even when it’s crowded. I noticed plenty of signs pointing the way to different areas of the stadium.
For fans with mobility issues, there are 300 wheelchair-accessible seats available. Elevators and ramps ensure everyone can reach their seats comfortably.
Concourse and View
The concourse at Joan C. Edwards Stadium is spacious and well-designed. I found it easy to grab snacks or merchandise without missing much of the action. There are 14 concession areas spread throughout, offering a variety of food and drink options.
As for the view, it’s hard to beat. The stadium has a classic bowl shape with large sections stretching up to 58 rows. I think the sweet spot for viewing is around row 15, which gives you a great perspective without being too far from the field.
For those wanting a more luxurious experience, there are 20 indoor suites available. These offer top-notch comfort and excellent views of the game.
Restrooms and Facilities for Kids
I was impressed by the number of restrooms at Joan C. Edwards Stadium. With 16 separate facilities, I never had to wait long in line, even during halftime.
For families with children, the stadium has some nice features. While there isn’t a dedicated play area, I saw plenty of open spaces on the concourse where kids can stretch their legs during breaks in the action.
The stadium staff seemed friendly and helpful, always ready to assist with any needs. I’d recommend bringing some activities to keep younger kids entertained during slower moments in the game.
Visiting Huntington, WV
Huntington offers plenty to see and do for visitors coming to watch a game at Joan C. Edwards Stadium. I found some great places to stay, eat, and explore during my trip. The city has a charming downtown area with lots of options.
Local Accommodations
I stayed at a nice hotel right near Marshall University’s campus. It was super convenient for walking to the stadium on game day. There are several other hotels downtown too if you want to be close to restaurants and shops.
For a cozier vibe, I spotted some cute bed and breakfasts in the historic district. They looked like restored old mansions. Next time I might try one of those for a more local feel.
If you’re on a budget, there are some chain hotels along the highway just outside of town. They’re a quick drive to the stadium and other attractions.
Dining Options
Huntington has tons of great places to eat. I really enjoyed Fat Patty’s near campus. Their burgers were amazing and they had a fun sports bar atmosphere.
For breakfast, I tried a local diner downtown. The homestyle cooking hit the spot before a long day of sightseeing. There were also some trendy-looking cafes serving up fancy coffees and pastries.
If you want something fancier for dinner, I saw a few upscale restaurants along the riverfront. The menus looked great but I didn’t get a chance to try them this trip.
Attractions and Things to Do
Besides watching the Thundering Herd play, there’s plenty to keep you busy in Huntington. I loved strolling through the downtown area. It has lots of local shops, art galleries, and historic buildings to check out.
For some nature, I took a walk in Ritter Park. It has beautiful gardens and walking trails. There’s also a rose garden that I bet looks stunning in spring.
The Huntington Museum of Art was another highlight. They have an impressive collection for a smaller city. I especially enjoyed their glass art exhibit.
If you have kids, the Pottery Place looked fun. You can paint your own ceramics as a souvenir. The Facing Hunger Foodbank also offers tours if you want to give back during your visit.
Ticketing and Attendance
Getting tickets to a Marshall game at Joan C. Edwards Stadium is easy and fun. I’ve found the prices to be reasonable, and there are great seating options. The stadium can get packed for big games too!
Ticket Prices and Purchasing
I love how affordable Marshall football tickets are. Single game tickets usually range from $20-$35 for adults. Students can get in even cheaper with their ID. Season tickets are a great deal if you plan to catch multiple games.
I always buy my tickets online through the Marshall Athletics website. It’s super convenient. You can also get tickets at the stadium box office on game days.
For the best seats, I recommend buying early. Popular games against rivals can sell out fast.
Sections and Seating Guides
The stadium has a nice layout with good views from most seats. I’m a big fan of the sideline seats in sections like 108 for the best sightlines.
Student seating is in the east endzone. It’s always lively there! The west side has chairback seats if you want extra comfort.
Upper deck seats offer a great birds-eye view of the action. But I prefer being closer to the field in the lower bowl.
Record Attendances
Joan C. Edwards Stadium can pack in quite a crowd! The official capacity is 38,227. But I’ve seen it get even fuller for big games.
The attendance record was set back in 2010 when 41,382 fans squeezed in. It was for a game against West Virginia. The atmosphere was electric!
I love seeing a full stadium. Big conference games and rivalries tend to draw the largest crowds. There’s nothing like the roar of Thundering Herd fans on a packed Saturday!
Future and Expansion
Joan C. Edwards Stadium is getting some exciting upgrades. I’m really looking forward to the new additions that will make the game day experience even better for us Thundering Herd fans.
Recent Upgrades
I’m thrilled about the new $2.7 million video board that’s replacing the old scoreboards. It’s going to be awesome to see replays and stats on a big, modern screen.
The stadium also got new turf installed recently. I can’t wait to see how it looks and feels for the players. The fresh turf will give the field a nice updated look too.
Plans for Stadium Expansion
I’ve heard some exciting rumors about future expansion plans. The biggest one is a restructuring of the south end zone. This could really change the look and feel of the stadium.
While I don’t have details yet, I’m hoping the south end zone project might include new seating or maybe even a fieldhouse. It would be great to have more amenities in that area of the stadium.
I’ll be keeping a close eye on any announcements about these expansion plans. They could really take our game day experience to the next level!
Marshall Thundering Herd Football
I love watching the Marshall Thundering Herd play football. Their exciting games and rich history make them a special team to follow. Let me tell you about their past and their place in college football today.
Team History and Achievements
The Marshall Thundering Herd has a proud football tradition. They’ve won many conference titles and two national championships at the I-AA level. In 1970, the team faced tragedy when a plane crash killed 75 people, including players and coaches. But they rebuilt and became stronger.
I’m always impressed by their winning record at Joan C. Edwards Stadium. The team wins over 80% of their home games there! Some great NFL players like Randy Moss and Chad Pennington played for Marshall. Their success shows how resilient this program is.
Conference USA and FBS Football
Marshall joined the FBS (formerly Division I-A) in 1997. They’ve been part of Conference USA since 2005. I’ve seen them become a strong team in this conference.
The Herd competes against other C-USA teams like Western Kentucky and Middle Tennessee. They’ve won several division titles and a conference championship. Playing in the FBS gives Marshall a chance to face top teams from Power Five conferences too.
I’m excited to see how Marshall’s football team develops under new coach Charles Huff. He’s bringing fresh energy to the program. The team seems ready for big things in the coming seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Joan C. Edwards Stadium offers fans lots of options and amenities. I’ve gathered answers to some common questions to help you plan your visit and make the most of your game day experience.
What are the best seating options at Joan C. Edwards Stadium?
The 38,016-seat stadium has several great seating choices. I think the west side offers the best views of the field and campus. For a more budget-friendly option, the end zone seats still provide a fun atmosphere.
The stadium also has 20 luxury suites for those wanting a premium experience. These offer climate-controlled comfort and great sightlines.
Can you tell me about the accessibility accommodations at the stadium?
Joan C. Edwards Stadium aims to be welcoming for all fans. There are wheelchair-accessible seating areas on both the east and west sides of the stadium. Elevators are available to reach upper levels.
I recommend contacting the ticket office directly for the most up-to-date info on accessibility options and services. They can help ensure you have the best possible experience.
What’s the food and drink situation like at Marshall’s home games?
The stadium offers typical stadium fare like hot dogs, nachos, and popcorn. There are also some local specialties to try. I’m a fan of the pepperoni rolls, a West Virginia favorite.
Soft drinks and bottled water are available throughout. Alcohol is not sold in general seating areas, but suite holders can purchase beer and wine.
Is there any dedicated parking available near the stadium on game day?
There are several parking lots near the stadium, but they fill up fast on game days. I suggest arriving early to snag a spot close by. Some lots require a special pass.
If you don’t mind a short walk, there’s usually street parking available in the surrounding neighborhoods. Just be sure to follow all posted signs and regulations.
What are some of the fan favorite traditions at Joan C. Edwards Stadium?
The Thundering Herd has some great traditions. I love watching the team enter the field through a giant inflatable helmet. The crowd goes wild!
The “We Are Marshall” chant is another highlight. It never fails to give me goosebumps. And of course, there’s Marco the mascot leading cheers throughout the game.
How do I purchase tickets for a game at Joan C. Edwards Stadium?
Tickets can be bought online through Marshall’s athletic website. You can also call or visit the ticket office in person. I find the online option to be quick and convenient.
For big games, I recommend buying early. Some matchups sell out fast. Group rates are available if you’re bringing a crowd.
