January 20, 1999
Webcast of the Press Conference
Clemson, SC – For the first time in Clemson history, the Athletic Department is entering into a five-year, $30-million capital campaign designed to bring the University’s athletic facilities into the 21st century with much-needed upgrades and additions. Officials announced the kick-off of the Tiger Pride campaign this afternoon in Clemson with visual renderings of the upgrades and support from coaches, cheerleaders and fans.
According to officials, the goal of Tiger Pride is to create an athletic complex that ties the athletic areas together, both geographically and visually, from the track and baseball fields to Clemson Memorial football stadium.
“Because very few upgrades or renovations have been made since the original facilities were built, it’s time to bring Clemson into the millennium with state-of-the-art facilities that reflect the quality and innovation of the entire University,” said Clemson Athletic Director Bobby Robinson.
“It’s been 10 years since any work was completed at the baseball stadium; nearly 15 years since the upper deck was added to the football stadium; and, almost 30 years since any significant improvements to Littlejohn Coliseum. There’s no question it’s time to move forward.”
Much like IPTAY, Tiger Pride donors will have the opportunity to make annual contributions over a five-year period, with some form of recognition. They also will be allowed to designate how the gift will be used and by what facility.
“This is the first time we’ve had to ask our Clemson ‘family’ to help fund capital improvements, and it’s imperative that they join the team,” added Robinson. “We want every fan to take stock in Tiger Pride, no matter what level of participation. Clemson sports programs need to be able to compete by offering first-class facilities that attract both blue-chip student-athletes and fans.”
The vision for some of the future facilities include:
* A year-round restaurant in Death Valley Stadium, along with cosmetic improvements to the West End Zone area as well as new locker rooms, concession areas and restrooms
* Improvements to the Littlejohn Coliseum with a new sound system, restrooms, concessions area and reformatted seating
* An added annex to Littlejohn Coliseum that is equipped with team room, locker rooms and additional practice facilities for both men and women
* Permanent entrances, new concession areas and additional restrooms at the baseball field
* A new indoor track that will also house an indoor practice field for football, soccer and baseball
* Upgrades and renovations to the Clemson Tiger Training room
“This is the opportunity for everyone in the Clemson family to create an ownership in Clemson’s athletic future. We’re appealing to everyone to show their Tiger Pride,” said Robinson. Work on the athletic facility upgrades are slated to begin after the 1999 football season.
Those interested in learning more about Tiger Pride should contact the IPTAY office at Clemson University, (864) 656-2115.
December 10, 2024
