Armfield Athletic Center Stadium Renovation

ARMFIELD MAIN PAGE        SITE PLANS AND DRAWINGS        CONSTRUCTION PHOTOS

At the first home football game on September 10, 2005, President Kent Chabotar announced (click here for the full release) a significant lead gift from the Edward M. Armfield, Sr. Foundation of Greensboro that combined with other gifts from anonymous donors totals $1.1 million in support of renovations to the college's campus stadium, Armfield Athletic Center.

With the endorsement from Armfield Foundation trustees, the college raised additional funds for stadium improvements by challenging alumni student-athletes and friends to make gifts to name the stadium field for Jefferson-Pilot Professor of Sports Studies Emeritus Herbert T. Appenzeller of Summerfield, N.C.

The former stadium (pictured below), originally constructed with funds from the Armfield family and friends, has served as the college's football and lacrosse stadium for 45 years.  Construction began on January 23, 2006 of Phase I of the renovation, while fundraising continues on Phase II.

Phase I renovation, with a budget of approximately $1.1 million, included a two-story press box with spectator restrooms on the first floor and tiered press and coach observation rooms on the second floor.  There is also space for game filming above the observation rooms.  The addition of a new exterior fence, landscaping improvement, and a new multi-function scoreboard were also included in the project.

The press box was constructed behind the location of the existing one, making room for 161 crimson stadium seats.  The existing bleachers were re-conditioned.  The existing brick wall was replaced with brick pillars, black wrought-iron fencing and attractive landscaping. 

The design of the press box is striking (see below).  Teague, Freyaldenhoven, Freyaldenhoven Architects have designed a building of red brick and white columns, in keeping with the rest of the campus buildings.  The comfort and aesthetics provided by the renovation will bring a new atmosphere to home games.

Phase I renovations were completed for Guilford's 100th football season, beginning September 2006.  The dedication of Appenzeller Field was during Homecoming halftime on September 30, 2006.

Phase II renovations, completed in May 2007, included additional landscaping signage and lettering, field lighting, and new visitor bleacher seating.

Subsequent phases are slated to include field turf, additional seating and exterior improvements with a new entry plaza and gate.

• If you are interested in learning more about funding for the Armfield Athletic Center/Appenzeller Field project please contact the Office of Advancement at 336-316-2178.