The presence of a high-quality athletic stadium is a vital component for any university looking to elevate its sports programs and provide an exceptional experience for its students, faculty, and fans. For Arkansas Tech University (ATU), Thone Stadium is more than just a sports venue – it's a symbol of school spirit, community pride, and athletic excellence.
Located in Russellville, Arkansas, Thone Stadium is the home stadium of the Arkansas Tech Wonder Boys and Golden Suns football, soccer, and track and field teams. With a seating capacity of over 6,000, the stadium offers an intimate and electric atmosphere that is perfect for cheering on the home team. The stadium's design and amenities are carefully crafted to provide an enjoyable experience for spectators, while also meeting the needs of student-athletes and coaches.
A Brief History of Thone Stadium
Thone Stadium was built in 1995, thanks to the generous support of Dr. and Mrs. Willie Thone, who donated a significant portion of the funds needed to construct the stadium. The Thones were longtime supporters of Arkansas Tech University and wanted to create a state-of-the-art facility that would serve as a source of pride for the university and the local community.
Since its opening, Thone Stadium has undergone several renovations and upgrades to ensure that it remains a top-notch facility. In 2010, the stadium underwent a major renovation that included the installation of new artificial turf, improved lighting, and expanded seating areas. These upgrades have helped to enhance the overall experience for fans and athletes, while also making the stadium more competitive and attractive to visiting teams.
Amenities and Features
Thone Stadium is designed to provide an exceptional experience for athletes, coaches, and fans. Some of the stadium's key amenities and features include:
- Artificial Turf: The stadium features a state-of-the-art artificial turf surface that is perfect for football, soccer, and track and field events.
- Seating Capacity: With a seating capacity of over 6,000, Thone Stadium offers an intimate and electric atmosphere that is perfect for cheering on the home team.
- Improved Lighting: The stadium features improved lighting that provides excellent visibility for nighttime events.
- Press Box: The stadium has a spacious press box that offers amenities such as wireless internet, telephones, and electrical outlets.
- Concession Stands: Thone Stadium has several concession stands that offer a variety of snacks and beverages for fans.
Impact on the University and Local Community
Thone Stadium has had a significant impact on Arkansas Tech University and the local community. The stadium has helped to:
- Enhance School Spirit: Thone Stadium has become a symbol of school spirit and pride, providing a focal point for students, faculty, and alumni to come together and cheer on the Wonder Boys and Golden Suns.
- Promote Community Engagement: The stadium has helped to promote community engagement by hosting various events, such as high school football games, track meets, and concerts.
- Support Local Economic Development: Thone Stadium has also contributed to local economic development by attracting visitors and generating revenue for local businesses.
Future Developments and Plans
As Arkansas Tech University continues to grow and evolve, Thone Stadium is likely to undergo future developments and upgrades to ensure that it remains a top-notch facility. Some potential plans and developments include:
- Expansion of Seating Areas: The university may consider expanding the seating areas to increase the stadium's capacity and provide more amenities for fans.
- Installation of Video Scoreboard: A video scoreboard could be installed to provide fans with a more engaging and interactive experience.
- Upgrades to Concession Stands: The university may consider upgrading the concession stands to offer a wider variety of snacks and beverages.
Conclusion
Thone Stadium is a vital component of Arkansas Tech University's athletic programs, providing a state-of-the-art facility that is perfect for cheering on the Wonder Boys and Golden Suns. With its intimate and electric atmosphere, improved amenities, and commitment to community engagement, Thone Stadium is an exceptional venue that is sure to provide an enjoyable experience for fans and athletes alike. As the university continues to grow and evolve, Thone Stadium is likely to remain a source of pride and a symbol of school spirit for years to come.
What is the seating capacity of Thone Stadium?
+The seating capacity of Thone Stadium is over 6,000.
What type of surface does Thone Stadium have?
+Thone Stadium has an artificial turf surface.
What are the plans for future developments at Thone Stadium?
+The university is considering expanding the seating areas, installing a video scoreboard, and upgrading the concession stands.