"The existing soccer field and practice soccer field on the west side of Stadium Drive West will be the site of the new NCAA track and field and artificial turf soccer field. The project will commence as early as April 1, 2008, and will be substantially completed by August 15, 2008, with the possibility of the track surface taking longer based on the summer weather."
"The major elements of the project include:
- An 8-lane NCAA compliant track
- A FIFA II star artificial turf soccer field
- Field event pads/cages and throwing range
- Outbuilding for storage
- Track and field event lighting
- Extensive fencing and gates"
This info was taken from...
http://www.procure.stateuniv.state.il.us/dsp_notice.cfm?Uni=NIU&PN=SMO30608
This will reap major benefits for NIU's entire athletic program, as it is somewhat laughable for a division one school not to have a track. Especially one that supports a track & field team. Also, if Chicago receives the 2016 Olympic Games, NIU has already been included in the plans as a site for preliminary round soccer matches. Although the prelim games would be played in Huskie Stadium, the new soccer/track facility would be a great place for the teams to practice.
In other news, TODAY SUCKS. The weather is horrible, and I don't think I'll be able to make it back to Rockford for the IceHogs game tonight. One more note, if you read, please comment! Let me know what you think and what you want me to write on!
.jpg)