University News Desk

A new day is dawning for Morgan State University’s Department of Athletics. On Saturday, September 22, 2001, at 3:00 p.m., Morgan’s President, Dr. Earl Richardson, the Director of the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics, Dr. David Thomas, and other dignitaries, will officially open the Morgan Bear’s new home for football and track and field - the newly renovated Hughes Stadium. The opening will be marked by a ribbon cutting ceremony at midfield.

The $14 million stadium marks a new direction for MSU Athletics, one that will galvanize alumni and community support. Hughes Stadium was rebuilt with design input from professionals who have developed some of the finest professional athletic arenas in the country.

“Morgan has received national attention for its enhanced academic and cultural programs as well as the work we’ve done to improve the physical aspects is known for the enhancements it has made to its academic programs over the past several years and this beautiful, state-of-the-art facility gives us the recognition we deserve in collegiate athletics as well. We are grateful to all of those who helped make the New Hughes Stadium possible,” said Morgan President Earl. S. Richardson.

The renovation brings amenities to fans, players and the working media. There are new concession stands, rest room facilities, state-of-the-art scoreboard with video playback screen, stadium lights, a multi-tiered press box, team dressing buildings, storage areas, a “coaches room” above the field, and an Olympic sanctioned mondo track.

“The renovations to Hughes Stadium will instill a new pride in our student-athletes. Our new home is as good as any collegiate stadium in the country," says Dr. Thomas.

The gates will open at 2:00 p.m. for the 3:30 p.m. game against Howard University, with pre-game ceremonies beginning at 3 p.m. when the Morgan Band takes the field.

In addition to the festivities surrounding the game, the Ravens’ Fan Zone will be set up on the practice field next to Hughes Stadium where fans can participate in interactive skill testers, including an obstacle course, football throws and field goal kicking.

The Bears’ inaugural game at the new Hughes Stadium is the MEAC’s (Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference) featured game of the week and will be televised on Comcast Sportsnet. The game will also be broadcast on WEAA 88.9FM.