Cornell to dedicate Van Metre Field at Ash Park Sept. 8
Cornell College will celebrate the dedication of Van Metre Field at Ash Park as fans gather for the first home football game of the season on Sept. 8, 2018.
“We’re thrilled to welcome students, staff, faculty, and community members to celebrate with us as we welcome the Van Metre family back to campus for this dedication,” said Director of Athletics Keith Hackett. “We know this project will benefit our student-athletes and fans for years to come.”
What: Van Metre Field Dedication
When: Saturday, Sept. 8, 6:30 p.m. (prior to 7 p.m. kickoff)
Where: Van Metre Field at Ash Park
David Van Metre, formerly of Mount Vernon, and members of the Van Metre family, donated more than $1 million to renovate the stadium for the campus and greater local community.
“The renovations have been needed for many years,” said Dave Van Metre. “Rather than just doing touch-ups, we wanted it done first class. I think it will mean a great deal to students and the community. They’ll have a stadium they can be proud of.”
The project includes a street-facing field entrance with an entry plaza and a fully-renovated press box, which was moved from its previous location to the 50-yard line where it’s centered on the field. Visitors will also see improved perimeter fencing, increased technology, upgraded seating, better accessibility for patrons with special needs, and a new video scoreboard. Crews are also working on finishing a new mixed-use building with bathrooms and concessions and installing a Cornell Ram statue near the entrance to the Richard and Norma Small Multi-Sport Center.
The first 250 visitors at the 1st Street gate will get free, purple thunder sticks to cheer on the Rams against Coe College in the oldest college football rivalry west of the Mississippi. The facility serves as Cornell’s competition venue for football, lacrosse, and track & field.
Students, faculty, and staff get into the football game for free with Cornell ID. Admission charge for the community is $5.