Contributed/PSU
Plans for a new end zone facility at the north end of Carnie Smith Stadium were announced Thursday by Pittsburg State.
The facility, which should be ready for the 2027 season, will include a gameday locker room, private suites for fans and corporate partners, coaches’ offices and a centralized recruiting area, team meeting rooms, student-athlete study space and event space that can serve university and community needs year-round. It will be entirely donor funded.
University leaders say the project is an investment in the role that PSU athletics continue to play in bringing together the community and generations of Gorilla alumni. The historic rock wall surrounding the stadium will not be impacted, and gameday traditions like the football team’s Gorilla Walk will continue.
“Football game days at Carnie Smith Stadium are about far more than a game, PSU president Dr. Thomas Newsom said in a release. “They are among the most visible expressions of community and connection that we have at Pittsburg State University. This facility (will be) funded by private donations, which shows community drive in preserving and strengthening that tradition for future generations.
The project also reflects the changing realities of college athletics and the university’s need to remain competitive in an era shaped by the transfer portal and increased mobility by student-athletes.
“The expectations of student-athletes have changed dramatically,” Newsom said. “Today’s students are evaluating the total experience across quality of facilities, academic support, opportunities for development and whether a university is invested in its success.”
PSU athletics director Amthony Crespino said the facility was intentionally designed to support multiple priorities across the athletics department and campus.
“This project is about creating an environment where our student-athletes can thrive academically, socially and competitively,” he said. “At the same time, the suites and event spaces create new opportunities for engagement with alumni, donors, businesses and fans. It positions us to generate additional revenue to support our athletes, strengthen partnerships and continue investing in the future of Pitt State.”
Crespino added that modern facilities have become increasingly important at the NCAA Division II level, especially as universities compete for athletes against larger programs with greater Name, Image and Likeness resources.
“We may not have the same financial ecosystem of some Division I programs,” Crespino said, “but we can offer an incredible student-athlete experience, meaningful playing opportunities and a culture that genuinely cares about our students. Facilities matter because they reflect commitment.”
Football coach Tom Anthony said the project will have an immediate impact on the program. One particular challenge is the transfer portal, which has created an environment where student-athletes have more mobility and options than ever before.
“We are definitely facing more recruiting and retention pressure,” said Anthony. “Players want to know they are part of something special, and facilities like this send a message that Pitt State and the community are committed to them.”
