Rynearson Stadium Review: A Welcoming Home for Eastern Michigan Eagles Fans

Rynearson Stadium is a hidden gem for college football fans. I recently visited this Eastern Michigan University (EMU) landmark and was pleasantly surprised by what I found. The stadium offers a cozy, small-town feel while still providing all the excitement of Division I football.

As I approached the stadium on the western edge of EMU’s campus, I was struck by its simple yet charming design. The gray concrete exterior might not win any beauty contests, but it sets the stage for a no-frills, authentic football experience. Inside, I found the atmosphere electric, with passionate Eagles fans creating a lively buzz throughout the game.

One thing that stood out to me was the great views from almost every seat. Whether you’re in the lower bowl or up high, you’re never too far from the action. The intimate size of the stadium means you can really feel connected to the game and the players on the field.

Key Takeaways

• Rynearson Stadium offers an authentic, small-town college football experience
• The stadium’s compact size provides excellent views from most seats
• EMU’s passionate fans create an exciting atmosphere for games

History and Background

I’m excited to tell you about Rynearson Stadium’s rich history! It opened in 1969 as the home field for Eastern Michigan University’s football team. The stadium is named after Elton J. Rynearson Sr., who coached EMU football for 26 seasons.

Rynearson Stadium started with about 15,500 seats and cost $1.4 million to build. It’s come a long way since then!

The stadium got a fun nickname – “The Factory.” I love how it reflects the hardworking spirit of the area.

In 2014, EMU made a bold move. They installed gray turf, making Rynearson the first NCAA Division I FBS stadium with a non-green playing surface. It’s pretty cool to see!

The largest crowd ever at Rynearson was in 2008. Over 26,000 fans watched EMU beat Central Michigan 56-52. What an exciting game that must have been!

Over the years, renovations have improved the stadium. Now it can seat up to 30,200 people. That’s a lot of cheering Eagles fans!

Location and Accessibility

Rynearson Stadium sits in a convenient spot in Ypsilanti. I found it easy to get to and park my car when I visited. Let me share what I learned about getting there and where to leave your vehicle.

Getting There

I drove to Rynearson Stadium and it was pretty straightforward. The stadium is right off I-94, which made finding it a breeze. I took exit 183 and followed the signs. It’s on the eastern edge of Eastern Michigan University’s campus.

The area around the stadium is mostly athletic facilities and some apartment buildings. I didn’t see much else nearby, so plan ahead if you want to grab food before the game.

If you’re not driving, there are buses that stop near the stadium. I didn’t use them myself, but I saw some fans getting off at nearby stops.

Parking Information

I found plenty of parking spaces when I went to a game. The lots are right next to the stadium, which was super convenient. I didn’t have to walk far at all.

For most games, there seemed to be enough spots. But I heard that for really big games, parking can fill up fast. If you’re going to a big matchup, I’d suggest getting there early to snag a good spot.

I noticed some signs for accessible parking too. They were closer to the stadium entrances, which is great for fans who need them.

One tip: bring some cash for parking fees. I’m not sure if they take cards, so it’s better to be prepared.

Stadium Features

Rynearson Stadium has some cool features that make it a fun place to watch football. I’ll tell you about the seating, media areas, scoreboard, and field.

Seating and Capacity

I love how Rynearson Stadium can fit a big crowd. It holds 30,200 fans, which is perfect for Eastern Michigan games. The seats are mostly along the sidelines in sections 101-109.

I think the best views start around row 10. If you want extra comfort, grab a seat in section 105. It’s right at midfield and has chairbacks.

The student section brings tons of energy. I always enjoy seeing the Eastern Michigan band pumping up the crowd from the front of section 102.

Press Box and Media Facilities

I haven’t been in the press box myself, but I know it’s where all the action happens behind the scenes. Reporters and broadcasters work there to cover the games.

The press box likely has great views of the field. It probably has workspaces for media members, stats monitors, and areas for coaches.

I’d guess there are also broadcast booths for radio and TV crews. While I don’t have specific details, I’m sure it has all the tech they need to report on the games.

Scoreboard and Audiovisuals

The scoreboard at Rynearson Stadium keeps fans in the loop. It shows the score, time, and game stats. I’ve noticed it has two center displays with ads on either side.

Sometimes the board has small glitches. The team name might disappear, or it shows the wrong down and distance. But overall, it does a good job of sharing key info.

I love how the audiovisuals add to the gameday buzz. The sound system blasts music and pumps up the crowd. It’s all part of the fun college football atmosphere.

Playing Surface

Rynearson Stadium’s field has seen some changes over the years. When it opened in 1969, I bet it had natural grass.

Now, I’m pretty sure they use artificial turf. It’s probably FieldTurf or a similar product. This type of surface is great for all kinds of weather.

The turf likely has Eastern Michigan’s logo and colors. It gives the field a sharp look on game days. Artificial turf also needs less upkeep than grass, which is a big plus.

Fan Experience

My visit to Rynearson Stadium left me with mixed feelings. The atmosphere was lively, but some aspects of the fan experience could use improvement. Let me share what I found in terms of food, events, and shopping options.

Food and Concessions

I wasn’t too impressed with the food choices at Rynearson Stadium. The options were pretty basic – hot dogs, nachos, and popcorn. I tried the hot dog, which was okay but nothing special. Prices seemed a bit high for what you get.

There were only a few concession stands open, so lines got long during halftime. I wish they had more variety and maybe some local specialties. On the plus side, the staff was friendly and efficient.

Drink options were limited too. They had the usual sodas and bottled water. I didn’t see any craft beers or unique beverages that might appeal to fans looking for something different.

Atmosphere and Events

The game day atmosphere at Rynearson Stadium was energetic, especially when the stands were full. I loved hearing the marching band and seeing the cheerleaders pump up the crowd. The student section was particularly lively.

I noticed some pre-game events like tailgating in the parking lots. It wasn’t as elaborate as some bigger schools, but fans seemed to be having fun. Inside the stadium, there were a few contests during timeouts that got the crowd involved.

The stadium itself felt a bit outdated. The seats weren’t very comfortable, and the scoreboard could use an upgrade. But when the Eagles scored, the excitement in the air was palpable.

Shopping and Merchandise

I was disappointed by the limited shopping options at Rynearson Stadium. There was only one small merchandise stand selling team gear. The selection was pretty basic – t-shirts, hats, and some small souvenirs.

I picked up a hat, but the quality wasn’t great for the price. It would be nice to see more variety in styles and sizes. Maybe some unique items that showcase the team’s history or local culture.

The stand got crowded quickly, making it hard to browse. An online ordering option for pickup might help. Overall, the merchandise experience felt like an afterthought rather than a key part of the fan experience.

Athletics and Teams

I’ve seen some exciting college sports action at Rynearson Stadium. It’s home to Eastern Michigan’s football and track teams, giving fans plenty to cheer for year-round.

College Football at Rynearson

The Eastern Michigan Eagles football team plays their home games here. I love the unique gray turf – it’s called “EMU Gray” and really stands out. The team battles rivals like Central Michigan and Western Michigan in tough Mid-American Conference matchups.

I’ve watched some nail-biters against Akron and other MAC foes. The stadium holds over 30,000 fans, so the atmosphere can get pretty electric on game days.

Track and Field

When football season ends, Rynearson transforms for track and field. I’ve seen some incredible performances on the track that circles the football field.

The stadium hosts Eastern Michigan’s track team for practices and meets. It’s cool to see the versatility of the venue. Sprint events, long jump, and other competitions unfold right where the football team plays.

I enjoy watching both sports here. The stadium works well for track’s long oval and football’s rectangle field.

Local Area Guide

Ypsilanti offers some great spots to eat, drink, and explore near Rynearson Stadium. I’ve found some cool places you might want to check out before or after the game.

Restaurants and Bars

Hungry? I love grabbing a bite at Arbor Brewing Company. Their craft beers are amazing, and the food is top-notch. If you’re in the mood for Italian, there are a few cozy spots downtown that serve up delicious pasta and pizza.

For a quick snack, I’ve noticed plenty of food options right outside the stadium. You can find classic game day fare like hot dogs and nachos.

After the game, I sometimes head to one of the local bars on Michigan Avenue. They’re usually buzzing with fans, and it’s a great way to keep the game day spirit going.

Nearby Attractions

When I have some extra time, I like to check out Ypsilanti’s famous Water Tower. It’s a quirky landmark that’s fun to see up close.

For nature lovers, I recommend a stroll along the Huron River. The riverside paths are perfect for a pre-game walk or a relaxing post-game cooldown.

If you’re into history, Eastern Michigan University’s campus has some beautiful old buildings. I enjoy walking around and soaking in the college atmosphere.

Remember to leave some time to explore – there’s more to Ypsilanti than just the stadium!

Special Features

Rynearson Stadium has some unique aspects that make it stand out. I’ll tell you about two of its coolest features that I really love.

Gray Field

The gray turf at Rynearson Stadium is one of my favorite things about it. Eastern Michigan University installed this special FieldTurf in 2014. It’s nicknamed “The Factory” because it looks like concrete.

I think it gives EMU a unique identity. No other college football team has a gray field! It’s pretty cool to see on TV too. The gray turf era lasted 10 years, from 2014 to 2024.

Sadly, they’re replacing the original gray turf soon. But I hope they keep the gray color! It’s become such a big part of EMU’s brand.

Convocation Center

Right next to Rynearson Stadium is the cool Convocation Center. It’s a big dome-shaped building that I love checking out when I visit.

The Convocation Center hosts EMU basketball games and other events. It seats about 8,800 people for sports. The dome roof is super neat – it’s 180 feet tall at its highest point!

I like how it connects to the football stadium. It makes the whole area feel like one big sports complex. The Convo (as students call it) opened in 1998 and cost $29.6 million to build.

It’s a great place to hang out before or after football games at Rynearson.

Noteworthy Events

I’ve seen some exciting events at Rynearson Stadium over the years. One that stands out is when the Detroit Wheels of the World Football League played here in 1974. It was a short-lived team, but it brought pro football to the stadium for a brief time.

The Mid-American Conference (MAC) has hosted many thrilling games at Rynearson. I’ve watched Eastern Michigan face off against rivals like Toledo, Ohio, Buffalo, Kent State, and Miami (OH) here. The energy during these conference matchups is always electric.

In 2014, I witnessed a major milestone when Eastern Michigan installed a gray FieldTurf surface. It was nicknamed “The Factory” and became only the second non-green playing surface in the NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision.

Some other noteworthy events I’ve enjoyed at Rynearson include:

• High school football state championships
• Concerts and music festivals
• Community events and fundraisers

The largest crowd I’ve been part of at Rynearson was in 2008. Over 26,000 fans packed the stadium to watch Eastern Michigan defeat Central Michigan. The atmosphere was unforgettable!

Support and Staff

I found the staff at Rynearson Stadium to be friendly and helpful. The ticket takers greeted me with smiles and quickly scanned my ticket. Ushers were easy to spot in their bright vests and gladly pointed me to my seat.

Concession workers kept the lines moving efficiently. They seemed well-trained and polite, even during busy halftime rushes. I appreciated how they handled food safely while serving customers quickly.

Security personnel maintained a visible presence without being intrusive. They walked around calmly, keeping an eye on things. I felt safe but not uncomfortable with their approach.

The EMU football team and coaches were accessible to fans before the game. Head Coach Chris Creighton walked along the sidelines, chatting with supporters and signing autographs. It was nice to see this personal touch from the program’s leader.

During timeouts, the cheerleaders and dance team entertained the crowd. Their routines were energetic and fun to watch. The mascot Swoop also roamed the stands, high-fiving kids and posing for photos.

Overall, I found the support staff and game day personnel at Rynearson Stadium to be professional and welcoming. They helped create a positive atmosphere for fans to enjoy EMU football.

Connect with EMU Athletics

I’ve found some great ways to stay up-to-date with Eastern Michigan University football and other sports. The athletics department makes it easy to follow along through social media and official channels.

Social Media Presence

I love following EMU Athletics on social media. Their Facebook page is full of game highlights, player profiles, and behind-the-scenes content. On Twitter, I get real-time updates during games and breaking news about the teams.

Instagram is my favorite for seeing awesome photos from games at Rynearson Stadium. I can almost feel like I’m there on the gray turf! EMU does a great job engaging with fans through comments and likes.

I’ve noticed they post consistently across platforms. This helps me stay connected no matter which social media I prefer. They also share fun contests and giveaways for fans.

Official Communications

For official info, I always check the EMU Athletics website first. They have a dedicated section for football with schedules, rosters, and stats. I can easily search for specific info about Rynearson Stadium too.

I’ve signed up for their email newsletter to get updates sent right to my inbox. It’s super convenient. They send out game previews, recaps, and ticket promos.

If I need to call about tickets or have questions, their phone number is easy to find on the site. The staff is always friendly and helpful when I call.

I also like reading fan reviews of game experiences. It gives me a good idea of what to expect when I visit “The Factory” for a game.

Planning Your Visit

Getting ready for gameday at Rynearson Stadium is easy and fun. I’ll share some key tips to help make your visit smooth and enjoyable.

Ticketing Information

I’ve found that buying tickets for Eastern Michigan games is pretty simple. General admission seats are usually the cheapest option. I like to sit in Section 105 near midfield for a great view of the action.

Rows closer to the field cost more but give you an up-close experience. The concourse level has some good affordable seats too. I suggest checking the EMU website for current prices and deals.

Student tickets are often discounted. If you’re an alum, look for special offers. Buying early can sometimes save you money.

What to Bring

I always pack light for games at “The Factory.” Here’s what I bring:

• Clear plastic bag (stadium policy)
• Sunscreen and hat
• Light jacket or poncho (weather can change)
• Cash for concessions
• ID and ticket

I leave prohibited items at home:

• Large bags or backpacks
• Outside food and drinks
• Noisemakers
• Weapons

Wearing EMU green and white is fun. I bring a seat cushion for comfort on the bleachers. Don’t forget your camera to capture memories!

Frequently Asked Questions

Fans have mixed opinions about Rynearson Stadium. Some love its unique gray turf, while others find the facilities lacking. I’ll address common questions about the stadium’s atmosphere, amenities, and how it stacks up against other college venues.

What are people saying about recent events at Rynearson Stadium on forums like Reddit?

From what I’ve seen on Reddit, opinions are split. Some fans praise the stadium’s distinctive gray turf, calling it “The Factory.” They think it gives EMU a cool identity.

Others complain about low attendance and a lack of atmosphere. A few posters mentioned that the concessions could use an upgrade.

How do visitors rate their experience at Rynearson Stadium after attending recent concerts?

I haven’t found many reviews of concerts at Rynearson Stadium. It’s mainly used for football games. Most big concerts in the area happen at larger venues in Detroit.

If you’re looking for concert reviews, you might want to check out nearby stadiums that host more music events.

What aspects of Rynearson Stadium’s facilities stand out in recent football game reviews?

The gray turf is definitely the most talked-about feature. It’s been around for 10 years and makes the field unique.

Fans seem to like the chairback seats in section 105, which is at midfield. The stadium’s size (30,200 capacity) is also mentioned as being just right for the school.

How does Rynearson Stadium compare to other unique college football fields like the Coastal Carolina or Eastern Washington fields?

Rynearson’s gray turf puts it in the same conversation as other colorful fields. Eastern Washington has red turf, while Coastal Carolina has teal.

I’d say Rynearson is less famous than those two. But it still stands out among the majority of green fields in college football.

Which stadium is regarded as the most aesthetically pleasing among football enthusiasts in America?

This is pretty subjective, but some stadiums often come up in these discussions. Michigan’s “Big House” and Notre Dame Stadium are loved for their classic looks.

Rose Bowl in Pasadena gets a lot of praise too. Its mountain backdrop and sunset views are hard to beat.

Can you share some of the most picturesque football stadiums recommended by fans?

Fans often rave about Husky Stadium at the University of Washington. Its views of Lake Washington are stunning.

Michie Stadium at West Point is another favorite. It sits on a bluff overlooking the Hudson River.

LaVell Edwards Stadium at BYU is also popular. The mountains behind it make for a gorgeous setting.