EVANSTON, Ill. () — Northwestern University began a new era in its football history Friday night as the new Ryan Field opened its doors. The stadium replaces the century-old venue that had served as the program’s home for generations.
Parents, alumni and fans gathered for tailgating before the inaugural game, while crews outside the stadium continued completing final construction work as kickoff approached.
“It’s fantastic. They’ve been down to the wire working really hard,” said neighbor Mark Hansen, who has followed the project since construction began.
The original stadium opened a century ago as Dyche Stadium before being renamed Ryan Field in 1997. For longtime supporters, the debut of the replacement venue represented a major moment in Northwestern football history.
Season-ticket holder Josh Denlow said he has attended Northwestern games for 50 years.
“We hung out here like it was a playground at the old Dyke Stadium and then Ryan Field. Never could I imagine what this is today,” Denlow said.
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The new stadium was expected to host a sellout crowd of 35,000, roughly 12,000 fewer seats than the former Ryan Field. Its more vertical seating design is intended to bring spectators closer to the field while maintaining strong sightlines throughout the facility.
“This is a college town. So when you have a facility like this who can entertain the best of the best and play outstanding football, it helps the community,” said Northwestern fan Michael Mitchell.
The $850 million project ranks among the most expensive college stadium developments in the country. Northwestern officials also planned several surprises as part of the opening-night celebration.
Even relatives of players said they did not know exactly what the festivities would bring.
“I’m not sure what’s gonna happen. There could be fireworks. John Bon Jovi, jumping out. Not sure. We’re excited to see them out on the field,” said Kristen Carsello, a parent.
Northwestern was scheduled to face Penn State in the stadium’s first game. Kickoff was set for 7 p.m., with the matchup slated for national television. University officials urged fans to arrive early for pregame activities and the planned surprises.
