central michigan university football stadium

2 min read 27-02-2025

central michigan university football stadium

Meta Description: Discover Kelly/Shorts Stadium, home of the Central Michigan Chippewas football team! This article explores the stadium's history, features, seating, and the electrifying game-day atmosphere. Learn about its unique design, renovations, and its role in the CMU community. Get ready for kickoff!

A Chippewa Tradition: Kelly/Shorts Stadium

Kelly/Shorts Stadium is more than just a football field; it's the heart of Central Michigan University (CMU) athletics and a vital part of the Mount Pleasant community. This iconic stadium has witnessed countless thrilling victories, heartbreaking defeats, and unforgettable moments in Chippewa football history. From its humble beginnings to its current state-of-the-art features, Kelly/Shorts Stadium represents the passion and dedication of CMU fans and players alike.

History and Evolution of Kelly/Shorts Stadium

Originally known as Central Michigan University Stadium, the venue opened in 1971. Its initial capacity was significantly smaller than today's. Over the years, the stadium underwent several expansions and renovations. The most significant changes came with the addition of the Shorts-Sauer Family North End Zone, which dramatically increased seating capacity.

In 2010, the stadium officially adopted its current name, Kelly/Shorts Stadium, to honor significant contributors to CMU athletics: Herb Kelly and the Shorts family. This renaming further solidified the stadium’s importance within the university's legacy.

Stadium Features and Amenities

Kelly/Shorts Stadium boasts several features designed to enhance the fan experience:

Seating Capacity: With a capacity exceeding 30,000, the stadium can accommodate a large and enthusiastic crowd.
Luxury Suites: For a premium game-day experience, luxury suites offer comfortable seating, catering services, and excellent views of the field.
Press Box: A modern press box provides ample space for media covering the games.
Concessions: A variety of food and beverage options are available throughout the stadium.
Video Board: A large high-definition video board keeps fans updated with game statistics, replays, and other information.
Accessibility: The stadium is designed to be accessible to fans with disabilities, featuring ramps, elevators, and designated seating areas.

The Electrifying Game-Day Atmosphere

Attending a football game at Kelly/Shorts Stadium is an experience in itself. The passionate Chippewa fanbase creates an incredibly energetic atmosphere. The roar of the crowd, the cheers, and the spirited chants make for an unforgettable game-day experience. The stadium's design helps amplify the noise, making it one of the most intimidating environments for visiting teams.

Getting to Kelly/Shorts Stadium

The stadium is conveniently located on the CMU campus in Mount Pleasant, Michigan. Ample parking is available, although it is recommended to arrive early, especially for big games. The university provides detailed parking maps and directions on their official website.

Beyond Football: Other Events

While primarily known for hosting CMU football games, Kelly/Shorts Stadium occasionally hosts other events, such as concerts and commencement ceremonies. This demonstrates the stadium's versatility and its role as a central hub for the university and the wider community.

The Future of Kelly/Shorts Stadium

CMU continually invests in maintaining and improving Kelly/Shorts Stadium. Future renovations might focus on further enhancing fan amenities, improving technology, and ensuring the stadium remains a state-of-the-art facility for years to come. This commitment reflects the importance of the stadium to the university and its athletic program.

Conclusion

Kelly/Shorts Stadium stands as a proud symbol of Central Michigan University and its dedication to athletic excellence. It's a place where traditions are born, rivalries are renewed, and memories are made. Whether you're a die-hard Chippewa fan or a first-time visitor, experiencing a game at Kelly/Shorts Stadium is an unforgettable experience. Go Chips!