The Wildcat Press Box Replacement Fund raised $1 million to assist with a new press box at Memorial Stadium that greatly improves the functionality of game management by providing a significantly increased amount of usable work space and better working environment for local and regional media outlets. The project benefits our exceptional student-athletes and dedicated coaches, and provides players with the Wildcat experience, in competition, in the classroom, and in the community. Construction on the new press box began in the fall of 2017 and was completed during the Fall 2018 semester. 

The old press box served the college for approximately 40 years. There were concerns about the structural integrity of the press box, life safety concerns, building code deficiencies, handicap inaccessibility, and poor function for college events. The press box was not structurally stable enough to stand up to the high wind loads, which are present in that portion of campus. Problems with the roof had been continuous because of wind loads and due to the lack of a rigid structure to support the roofing system.

The project included the demolition of the existing structure and the construction of a new 5,220-square-foot press box, including an elevator tower that was built on the northwest side of Memorial Stadium. The new press box and elevator tower addition provide space for all of the existing functions of the press box while increasing the size of several spaces to meet current and future needs.

The press box is used by members of the press, coaches, officials, and college students involved in Broadcasting, Health and Human Performance & Sport degree programs. The press box serves as an important laboratory for these students as they prepare for careers in broadcasting, journalism, and athletics. The plan for the press box was developed with a vision that considers use by staff, students, and alumni during collegiate and community events. Sporting events provide an opportunity to bond and the chance to provide a shared community space to make a notable difference to rural communities through learning excellence, student success, and regional service. Stadium and press box facilities are often used by local school districts for football and track events, which played an important role in the planning process for the new facility.

For more information, contact the Wayne State Foundation at 402-375-7510.