MSC News

MSC News National Headlines Sports Top Headlines CBS US News CBS Technology

Printer Friendly

Email to a Friend

Peru State College to Rededicate Oak Bowl Saturday

By Matthew Leaf

09/05/2014

(KTNC)-- A big weekend is in store, and a big crowd is expected, at Peru State College Saturday.
The Bobcats open the 2014 football season with a home game against Midland University, and Peru State will rededicate the historic Oak Bowl before the game.
The stadium, which dates back to 1901, has undergone a $9 million renovation over the last two years. Peru State President Dan Hanson says fans who come to the Oak Bowl Saturday will see a “beautiful, state-of-the-art, facility” and one of the finest small college stadiums in the Midwest. The renovation includes new field turf, drainage and stadium lights, as well as a new press box, concession stand, ADA compliant restrooms, expanded concourse area, and pedestrian access.
The upgrades were paid for with a combination of state funds and private donations. Hanson credits former District One State Senator and current Lieutenant Governor Lavon Heidemann and District 48 State Senator John Harms for leading the effort to provide state funds for the project, along with the State College System Board of Trustees, Chancellor Stan Carpenter, and many others have contributed to the college’s matching funds.
More than 70 people who contributed $2500 or more are included on a donor wall that will be dedicated at 3:00 p.m. Saturday. The largest donation was from the Sapp brothers, who gave a large gift to the college in honor of their mother and sisters who attended Peru State College.
A ceremony will be held to rededicate the stadium at 6:40 Saturday evening, with the game to kick-off at 7:00 p.m.
With a large crowd expected for the ceremony and game Saturday, Hanson advises fans to arrive early. Shuttles will be available to transport people from parking lots to the stadium.
In addition to hosting Bobcat football, the renovated field will be able to host soccer games. The facility will also be used for Peru State intramurals and other events including band competitions, camps and high school football playoffs.
Saturday's game will be the first night game at Peru State in more than three decades. The lights short-circuited during a game on September 24, 1983 and haven't been used since.

You will need to be logged in to leave a comment.

Please Login

The posting of advertisements, profanity, or personal attacks is prohibited.

Click here to review our Terms of Use.