Northwest Missouri State University making improvements to Bearcat Stadium

MARYVILLE, Mo. (KQTV) -- Northwest Missouri State University's Athletic Department announced on May 22 that Bearcat Stadium is undergoing a series of improvements to enhance athlete experience, fan comfort, and technology.

The improvements include replacing the turf on Mel Tjeerdsma Field, installing new premium seatbacks with foldable bottoms to improve fan accessibility, and expanding the videoboard by 34% to enhance the viewing experience.

The turf was last replaced in 2015. After nearly a decade, Athletic Director Dr. Andy Peterson noted clear signs that a new surface was needed for athletes.

"We were beginning to experience some issues with the turf, such as seams coming apart, which resulted in a few soft tissue and ankle injuries," Peterson said. "These issues occurred when athletes stepped into uneven spots on the field during games."

This time, the field design is simpler. Northwest’s AD sought input from coaches, especially head coach John McMenamin. The field uses one shade of green, and a red-lettered 'family' insignia marks the northwest corner, where alumni stand on game days.

The upgraded videoboard is designed to enhance in-game graphics, student movie nights, and other events. Peterson noted that although the new screen is only slightly larger, it features updated technology. Additionally, the previous scoreboard attached below the old board has been removed.

"We had to replace too many modules on the previous board over the years," Peterson said. "The technology had become outdated, so upgrading it allows us to align with the standards used elsewhere and significantly improves the fan experience."

The last part is the replacement of premium seating, which has been untouched since the early 2000s. Railback sections will also expand to make game days more comfortable.

Peterson explained the new chairs will not be wider, but foldable, allowing easier movement for fans.

The $2 million project to expand the videoboard, replace turf, and install new chairbacks is phase one. Peterson said select donors funded these changes, minimizing budget impact and university involvement.

Phase two, anticipated to follow soon, will focus on upgrading fourth-floor suites.

Bearcat Stadium hosts its first game on Saturday, September 12, against Washburn Ichabods. For more on Bearcat Athletics, click here.