Read Transcript from Sept. 23, 2009 Cougar Chat
Read Transcript from Aug. 3, 2009 Cougar Chat
Read Transcript from April 22, 2009 Cougar Chat
Read Transcript from Dec. 17, 2008 Cougar Chat
Read Transcript from Oct. 22, 2008 Cougar Chat
Read Transcript from June 20, 2008, Cougar Chat
Hello Cougar Fans and welcome to the A.D. Forum. Washington State University Director of Athletics Jim Sterk will post periodic entries on this page about topics regarding WSU Athletics.
Sept. 22, 2009
Today marks an exciting and historic day in Cougar Athletics as we unveil Phase III of the Martin Stadium Renovation Project.
In December 2006, we launched a multi-phase renovation of Martin Stadium, the first for the facility in 27 years. We have accomplished much in the ensuing years, thanks in large part to you, Cougar alumni, students, and fans. Your support made the initial phases of the renovation possible.
The significance of completing the initial phases of the renovation cannot be overstated; however, our goal at Washington State University is to make the complete renovation of Martin Stadium, and we are ready to move on to the next phase of doing just that.
Many of you are already aware of the next phases of the renovation, but many wondered when construction on Phase III would begin.
We had originally intended to do this a year ago; however, the state of the economy prevented us from moving forward at that time. While the economy forced us to postpone the project last year, it now offers us a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity with the potential to take advantage of favorable construction costs and other economic factors which could provide additional support for the project.
The time for us to act is now. And, we are doing so with today's announcement of moving forward with Phase III of the Martin Stadium Renovation Project.
As a refresher, Phase III encompasses the construction of luxury suites, loge boxes, and club seats atop the north stands. The effects of completing Phase III will be far-reaching. It will enable more fans to enjoy Cougar football, assist in recruiting, and provide opportunities to increase operating revenue for WSU Athletics. The additional operating funds will enhance the competitiveness of Cougar football and all WSU athletics programs. All WSU student-athletes and the entire University will benefit.
Our motto for the renovation is TeamBuilt. We cannot make Phase III a reality without your help. With the initial two phases and Phase III, we have received support from many generous and dedicated Cougars, and I greatly appreciate it.
But we need more help from more people. I am asking for your help. I am asking that you be a part of our team and together we will make Phase III happen.
You can be part of the team in many ways. One is to purchase premium seating. You can read details on how to make a reservation by clicking HERE. Premium seating commitments are vital to the project. Once 80 percent of premium seats have been committed, we can commence with Phase III construction.
If you choose not to purchase a premium seat, you can still be a part of the team by making a donation to the project HERE, becoming a season ticket holder if you have not previously been one, or renewing your season tickets. Your financial support, in any of the aforementioned categories, will help us achieve our goals
Phase III will be completed by the 2012 football season; however, if premium seat sales and fundraising benchmarks are met, Cougar fans could enjoy the premium-seating experience as early as the 2011 season.
Some may ask why move forward with Phase III during a time when we are rebuilding the football program. My response is that the program needs this now more than ever. With the previous renovation work, we have built the foundation for something special with the stadium, and we are also building a foundation for something special with the team.
Facility upgrades are critical in determining what school an 18-year-old decides to attend. Think about it for a moment. Imagine the benefit Phase III will have on recruiting when a future Cougar first witnesses a renovated Martin Stadium and how it represents our commitment to be successful in the Pac-10!
In addition, Phase III will allow WSU to keep pace competitively with our Pac-10 Conference members and the rest of the Football Bowl Subdivision. Ultimately, this project ensures WSU's long-term viability in the Pac-10.
If you would like more specific information on how to support the stadium renovation effort, please contact any of the individuals listed HERE, e-mail at athleticinfo@wsu.edu, or go to the stadium renovation website at www.martinstadium.org.
My thanks to all those who have helped make the first two phases of the renovation of Martin Stadium a reality, and I thank you, in advance, for the support needed for Phase III. Through your contributions, Phase III will truly be TeamBuilt..
Go Cougs!
Jim Sterk
Director of Athletics
Washington State University
