People of Pitt State
Academics
Community
Campus
A new end zone facility at Carnie Smith Stadium will include a game day locker room for Gorilla football, private suites for fans and corporate partners, coaches' offices and a centralized recruiting area, team meeting rooms, student-athlete study and collaboration space, and event space capable of serving both university and community needs year-round.
The planned facility, to be located on the north end of the field, is to be funded entirely by private dollars; donors still are being sought.
University leaders say the project represents an investment in the role Pitt State Athletics continues to play in bringing together the community and generations of Gorilla alumni. The historic rock wall surrounding the stadium will not be impacted, nor will important and traditional elements of game day like Gorilla Walk.
“Football game days at Carnie Smith Stadium are about far more than a game,” said President Thomas Newsom. “They are among the most visible expressions of community and connection that we have at Pittsburg State University. This facility is funded by private donations, which shows community drive in preserving and strengthening that tradition for future generations.”
Newsom said the project also reflects the changing realities of college athletics and the university’s need to remain competitive in an era shaped by the transfer portal and increased mobility among student-athletes.
“The expectations of student-athletes have changed dramatically,” Newsom said. “Today’s students are evaluating the total experience across quality of facilities, academic support, opportunities for development, and whether a university is invested in their success.”
Facilities like this show that Pittsburg State will provide a first-class experience rooted in personal relationships, opportunity, and student success, Newsom said.
Vice President for Athletics Anthony Crespino said the facility was intentionally designed to support multiple priorities across the Athletic department and campus.
“This project is about creating an environment where our student-athletes can thrive academically, socially, and competitively,” Crespino said. “At the same time, the suites and event spaces create new opportunities for engagement with alumni, donors, businesses, and fans. It positions us to generate additional revenue to support our athletes, strengthen partnerships, and continue investing in the future of Pitt State.”
Crespino added that modern facilities have become increasingly important at the NCAA Division II level, especially as institutions compete for athletes against larger programs with greater Name, Image, and Likeness resources.
“We may not have the same financial ecosystem of some Division I programs,” he said, “but we can offer an incredible student-athlete experience, meaningful playing opportunities, and a culture that genuinely cares about our students. Facilities matter because they reflect commitment.”
Head Football Coach Tom Anthony said the project will have an immediate impact on the program. One particular challenge is the transfer portal, which has created an environment in which student-athletes have more mobility and options than ever before.
“We are definitely facing more recruiting and retention pressure,” said Anthony. “Players want to know they are part of something special, and facilities like this send a message that Pitt State and the community are committed to them.”
The goal is to complete the new endzone facility in time for the 2027 football season.
Interested in a future suite in the facility? Complete this form as a first step.
