Martin Stadium is a special place for college football fans. As the home of Washington State University’s Cougar Football team, it’s packed with energy and excitement on game days. I’ve been lucky enough to visit this stadium, and I can tell you it’s an experience you won’t forget.
The crowd at Martin Stadium is known as one of the best in the PAC-12. The atmosphere is electric, with passionate fans cheering on their beloved Cougars. Even though it’s the smallest stadium in the conference, it packs a big punch in terms of fan enthusiasm and team spirit.
Recent renovations have made Martin Stadium even better. New seating, box seats, and a top-notch football operations building have upgraded the fan experience. I love how the stadium sits right in the heart of the WSU campus, making it easy to feel connected to the school spirit.
Key Takeaways
- Martin Stadium offers an exciting game day experience with passionate fans and a lively atmosphere.
- Recent upgrades have improved the stadium’s facilities and comfort for visitors.
- The stadium’s central location on the WSU campus adds to its charm and accessibility.
History and Background
Martin Stadium has a rich history tied to Washington State University. I’ll share how it got its name and some of the big changes it’s seen over the years.
The Legacy of Clarence D. Martin
Martin Stadium is named after Clarence D. Martin, a former governor of Washington. His son and daughter-in-law gave $250,000 to help build the stadium in 1972. This gift was a big deal for the university.
I think it’s cool how the stadium honors someone who was important to the state. Before it was called Martin Stadium, it was known as Soldiers Field. That name goes all the way back to 1892!
The stadium has been home to WSU football for a long time. It’s where the Cougars have played some of their biggest games.
Stadium Upgrades and Renovations
Martin Stadium has changed a lot over the years. In 1970, there was a fire that damaged part of the south stands. This led to some major rebuilding.
Since then, there have been many upgrades to make the stadium better for fans. They’ve added new seats, improved the scoreboard, and made the field nicer.
I’ve heard that in 2012, they finished a big project to add premium seating and a new press box. These changes have made watching games at Martin Stadium even more fun.
The university keeps working to improve the stadium. They want it to be a great place for students and fans to enjoy Cougar football.
Stadium Features
Martin Stadium has some awesome features that make it a great place to watch football. I love how they’ve designed it to give fans an amazing experience, from the seating to the fancy areas to the high-tech scoreboard.
Seating Arrangements
I’m always impressed by the seating at Martin Stadium. The stadium provides excellent sightlines from every seat, which means I can see all the action no matter where I’m sitting. Most of the seats are aluminum benches, but I don’t mind – they’re part of the classic college football experience!
The student section is where the real energy is. It’s packed with passionate Cougar fans, and the atmosphere is electric. I’ve noticed that some folks bring seat cushions for extra comfort, which is a smart move for those longer games.
Premium Facilities
Martin Stadium has really stepped up its game with premium seating options. I’ve had the chance to check out some of these areas, and they’re pretty swanky. There are luxury boxes for VIP guests, giving a more upscale experience.
The stadium also has a state-of-the-art football operations building. While I haven’t been inside, I’ve heard it’s top-notch and helps attract great players to the program.
Scoreboard and Sound System
The scoreboard at Martin Stadium is a real showstopper. It’s 73 by 36 feet – that’s huge! The LED technology makes everything super clear and bright. I love how I can see replays and stats easily from anywhere in the stadium.
The sound system is great too. Whether it’s the announcers calling the game or the music pumping up the crowd, everything comes through loud and clear. It really adds to the excitement of game day.
Game Day Experience
I love the electric atmosphere and fun traditions at Martin Stadium on game day. The energy is contagious as fans come together to cheer on the Cougs.
The Electric Atmosphere
When I step into Martin Stadium, I’m hit with a wave of excitement. The crowd’s roar is deafening as fans pack the stands in crimson and gray. I can feel the stadium buzzing with anticipation before kickoff.
The student section is a sea of energy. They jump and chant in unison, creating an intimidating wall of sound. I love watching them sway back and forth to pump up the team.
Even as a visitor, I can’t help but get swept up in the passion of Cougar fans. Their enthusiasm is infectious. The locals really show up to support their team.
Cougs Traditions and Fan Engagement
I always join in shouting “Go Cougs!” It’s impossible not to. The fight song gets stuck in my head for days after.
My favorite tradition is waving the Cougar flag. Seeing it fly proudly gives me chills. The mascot Butch T. Cougar gets the crowd fired up too.
I enjoy how the stadium involves fans. The big screen shows fun crowd shots. There are t-shirt tosses during breaks. Kids can even run onto the field at halftime.
The team’s dramatic tunnel entrance always gets me pumped. Hearing the crowd erupt as the players take the field is thrilling.
Planning Your Visit
Getting ready for game day at Martin Stadium is exciting. I’ll cover how to get tickets, where to park, and some great places to eat and stay nearby.
Tickets and Season Passes
I always recommend buying tickets early for the best seats. The official Washington State University website is my go-to for purchasing.
Season passes are a great deal if you plan to attend multiple games. I love being a season ticket holder – it’s like joining a big Cougar family!
For single game tickets, prices vary depending on the opponent. I’ve found that Pac-12 games tend to be pricier.
Don’t forget to check for student and alumni discounts. They can save you a bunch!
Parking and Transportation
Parking near Martin Stadium can be tricky on game days. I always try to arrive early to snag a good spot.
Here are some parking options I recommend:
- Smith Center Garage (closest to stadium)
- Library Road Garage
- Terrell Library Lot
If you’re not driving, the Pullman Transit bus system is super convenient. They run special game day routes that drop off right near the stadium.
For those flying in, the nearest airport is Pullman-Moscow Regional. It’s just a short drive to campus.
Nearby Accommodations and Restaurants
When I visit Pullman for games, I like to make a weekend of it. There are some cozy hotels nearby:
- Holiday Inn Express Pullman
- Coast Hilltop Inn
- Residence Inn by Marriott Pullman
For food, I’m always impressed by the local restaurant scene. Some of my favorite spots are:
- The Black Cypress (great burgers)
- Tan’s Chinese Restaurant
- Sella’s Calzone & Pizza (yummy Italian)
- Nuevo Vallarta (tasty Mexican)
- Thai Ginger (delicious Thai cuisine)
I usually check TripAdvisor or Yelp for the latest reviews and to make reservations. The restaurants can get busy on game weekends, so I like to plan ahead.
Local Amenities and Services
Pullman offers a variety of services and amenities near Martin Stadium. I’ve found some great spots for entertainment, shopping, and wellness that fans and visitors might enjoy before or after a game.
Entertainment and Nightlife
Pullman has a lively nightlife scene, especially on game days. I love The Coug, a popular bar just steps from the stadium. It’s always packed with fans wearing crimson and gray. For a more relaxed vibe, I recommend Rico’s Public House. They have live music on weekends.
Movie buffs can check out Village Centre Cinemas for the latest releases. If you’re into bowling, Zeppoz is a fun spot with lanes, an arcade, and a sports bar.
For family-friendly entertainment, I suggest the WSU Museum of Art or the Palouse Discovery Science Center. Kids love the hands-on exhibits there.
Shopping and Specialty Services
The WSU Bookie is my go-to for Cougar gear. It’s right on campus and has everything from t-shirts to tailgating supplies.
For grocery shopping, I like Dissmore’s IGA. They have a great deli for quick game day snacks.
Need a haircut? I recommend The Man Shop for a classic barbershop experience. For women’s styles, Poppy Salon does a fantastic job.
Auto services are also nearby. I trust Evergreen Tire for quick oil changes and minor repairs.
Health and Wellness Facilities
Staying fit is easy with several gyms close to campus. I’m a member at Anytime Fitness, which is open 24/7. For yoga enthusiasts, I highly recommend Sanctuary Yoga.
If you need medical care, Pullman Regional Hospital is just a short drive from the stadium. For less urgent needs, there’s a Walgreens pharmacy nearby.
Feeling sore after cheering on the Cougs? I love getting massages at Nuu Day Spa. They offer great post-game relaxation treatments.
There’s also a Planet Fitness for budget-friendly workouts. And don’t forget about the WSU Student Recreation Center – it’s an impressive facility if you can get access.
Stadium Policies and Amenities
Martin Stadium has rules and features to make game day fun and safe for everyone. I’ll share some key info about food, accessibility, and alcohol policies.
Food and Beverage Options
I love the variety of food at Martin Stadium! They’ve got classic stadium fare like hot dogs and nachos, but also some local favorites. I always grab some kettle corn – it’s a must-have snack. For drinks, there are plenty of soda and water options.
If you’re looking for a quick bite, the concession stands are spread out, so lines move pretty fast. I’ve noticed they’ve added more healthy choices lately, like salads and fruit cups.
Pro tip: Bring cash! Some stands are cash-only, and it’ll save you time.
Accessibility and Accommodations
I’m happy to say Martin Stadium takes accessibility seriously. There are wheelchair-accessible seating areas with great views of the field. The staff is always ready to help if you need assistance getting to your seat.
For families, there are changing stations in most restrooms. I’ve seen designated quiet areas for those who might need a break from the noise.
If you have any special needs, I recommend contacting the stadium ahead of time. They’re usually great about making accommodations.
Alcohol Policy and Safety Measures
Martin Stadium allows alcohol, but there are rules to keep everyone safe. You must be 21+ to buy and consume alcohol. They check IDs carefully, so bring yours even if you think you look old enough!
There’s a limit on how many drinks you can buy at once. I appreciate this because it helps keep things under control. Security is visible but not overwhelming. They’re there to ensure everyone has a good time without getting out of hand.
Remember, you can’t bring your own alcohol into the stadium. If you’re driving, plan for a designated driver or use a ride-sharing service. Safety first!
Football Operations
The Cougar Football Complex is the heart of WSU’s football program. It houses state-of-the-art facilities for players and coaches. I’ve seen firsthand how it helps the team prepare for games and develop their skills.
The Cougar Football Team
The WSU Cougar football team trains hard in their new complex. I love watching them practice on the field next to Martin Stadium. The players have access to a huge weight room and a fancy locker room.
There’s also a cool players’ lounge where they can relax between workouts. The team seems to really enjoy the new digs. I’ve noticed they look more focused and prepared on game days since moving in.
Coaching and Staff
The coaching staff, led by the head coach, has offices in the Football Operations Building. I’ve had the chance to peek inside, and it’s impressive. There are rooms for strategy meetings and film study.
The coaches can keep a close eye on practice from their offices. They have all the tools they need to plan game strategies. I remember when Mike Leach was coach – he really made use of the new facility to build a strong program.
Support staff like trainers and equipment managers also work here. It’s clear that everything is designed to help the Cougars succeed on the field.
Visitor Information
Martin Stadium welcomes fans of all teams. I’ll share some tips for visiting supporters and highlight stadium tours and campus attractions.
Supporting the Visiting Team
I love seeing fans travel to support their teams. The visitor section at Martin Stadium is a great place to cheer on your squad. It’s usually in the northeast corner of the stadium.
Pac-12 and other D-1 college football fans will feel right at home here. I recommend wearing your team colors proudly. The atmosphere is electric, especially for big conference games.
Tailgating is a big part of the gameday experience. I suggest arriving early to join in the fun. Many visiting fans set up in the parking lots around the stadium.
Stadium Tours and University Attractions
When I’m not catching a game, I enjoy exploring the campus. Martin Stadium offers tours that give a behind-the-scenes look at this Pac-12 venue. It’s fascinating to see the locker rooms and press boxes up close.
Washington State University has lots to see beyond football. I recommend checking out the Bear Research Center and the Museum of Art. The Palouse region’s rolling hills are beautiful too.
For a taste of college life, grab a meal at one of the local hangouts on College Hill. The area has a great vibe, especially on game weekends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Martin Stadium offers fans many amenities and features to enjoy on game day. I’ve gathered answers to some common questions about the stadium’s facilities, policies, seating, and history.
What amenities can fans enjoy at Martin Stadium?
Martin Stadium has lots of food and drink options. I can grab snacks, hot dogs, burgers, and more from concession stands. There are also bathrooms and souvenir shops throughout the stadium.
Is there a policy on alcohol sales at Martin Stadium during games?
Alcohol sales are allowed at Martin Stadium. I can buy beer and wine at designated areas. There are rules about where I can drink it though.
What is the seating capacity of Martin Stadium?
Martin Stadium can hold over 30,000 fans. The exact number changes a bit based on any recent upgrades or changes to the seating areas.
Has Martin Stadium undergone any recent renovations?
Yes, Martin Stadium has had some upgrades lately. They added new seating, fancy box seats, and a cool football operations building not too long ago.
What are the best seating areas in Martin Stadium for viewing a game?
The best seats depend on what I like. If I want to be close to the action, the lower levels near midfield are great. The upper decks give a good view of the whole field.
What historical facts should fans know about Martin Stadium?
Martin Stadium has been around since 1972. It’s named after Clarence D. Martin, a former Washington governor. The stadium is a big part of WSU’s campus and has hosted many exciting games over the years.
