June 5, 2008

GALLERY

Renovation work on Rooney Field has moved into high gear as the above photo gallery shows. Concrete has been poured to form the outline of the permanent grandstand and framing for the seating area has begun. In addition, the old artificial turf has been lifted to make way for a brand new Sportexe playing surface.

Sportexe artificial turf, which has established a reputation as one of the safest and top performing playing surfaces, is currently underfoot at a number of professional and college facilities including the Baltimore Ravens' M&T Bank Stadium, the Louisiana Superdome and LSU's Tiger Stadium among others.

The renovation of Rooney Field - the home to Duquesne football, soccer and lacrosse - began last November. Plans call for the construction of permanent grandstand seating on the Bluff Street side of Rooney Field - replacing temporary bleachers that were installed for the previous 14 football seasons. Permanent concession stands and restrooms will also be added to the south side of the field. The Academic Walk sideline will also gain additional seating.

The renovation coincides with the football program's adoption of a scholarship model and move to the Northeast Conference in 2008.

The Dukes, who are scheduled to start fall football camp in early August, open the season at Bucknell on Sept. 6. Men's soccer will be the first DU team to test out the new field when it hosts Pitt on Sept. 4 at 7:30 p.m.

Duquesne will formally christen the newly-renovated field at the football home opener against conference foe Saint Francis, Pa. on Sept. 20.