Peden Stadium is the home of the Ohio Bobcats football team and is located on the campus of Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. The stadium is named after Don Peden, who coached the Ohio Bobcats football team from 1924-1946 and is the winningest coach in program history. With a seating capacity of 24,000, Peden Stadium is one of the largest stadiums in the Mid-American Conference (MAC) and is known for its passionate fan base and lively atmosphere.
History
Peden Stadium was originally built in 1929 and has undergone a number of renovations and expansions over the years. The stadium’s most recent renovation was completed in 2010 and included the addition of a new press box, club seating, and updated facilities for the players and coaches.
The Ohio Bobcats football team has played at Peden Stadium since its opening, with the exception of a few seasons in the 1970s when the stadium was undergoing renovations. Over the years, the stadium has hosted a number of memorable games and events, including the annual Battle of the Bricks rivalry game against Miami University and a number of high-profile non-conference matchups against teams like Ohio State and Tennessee.
Features
Peden Stadium features a number of amenities for fans and players alike. The stadium has two large video boards, one located at each end of the field, that provide live game updates, replays, and other information throughout the game. There is also a state-of-the-art sound system that enhances the game day experience for fans.
The stadium has a number of seating options, including general admission seating, reserved seating, and club seating. The club seating area features indoor seating, a private bar, and other amenities for fans who want to enjoy the game in style.
For players and coaches, Peden Stadium features a number of updated facilities, including a weight room, locker rooms, meeting rooms, and coaches’ offices. The stadium also has a state-of-the-art turf field that provides a safe and reliable playing surface for the athletes.
Bobcats Football
The Ohio Bobcats football team has a long and proud tradition of success, with a number of conference championships and bowl game appearances to their name. The team has played at Peden Stadium since its opening and the stadium has been an integral part of the program’s success.
Peden Stadium provides a home field advantage for the Bobcats, with a passionate fan base and a lively atmosphere that can be intimidating for opposing teams. The stadium has also played host to a number of historic moments in Bobcats football history, including championship games and memorable upsets.
One of the most notable moments in Peden Stadium history came in 2012, when the Bobcats defeated the Penn State Nittany Lions in a thrilling upset. The game, which was played in front of a sold-out crowd at Peden Stadium, marked one of the biggest wins in program history and helped to solidify the Bobcats’ place as one of the top football teams in the MAC.
Aside from football, Peden Stadium has also hosted a number of other events over the years, including concerts, high school football games, and other community events. The stadium’s central location and large seating capacity make it an ideal venue for a variety of events and activities.
What Are Some Unique Facts about Peden Stadium?
While Peden Stadium is a beloved and iconic venue for Ohio Bobcats fans, there are also a number of unique and interesting facts about the stadium that many people may not be aware of.
Firstly, Peden Stadium is one of the few college football stadiums in the country that is named after a coach rather than a donor or corporate sponsor. Don Peden was the head football coach at Ohio University from 1924-1946 and led the Bobcats to unprecedented success during his tenure. The decision to name the stadium after him was a fitting tribute to his contributions to the program.
Another unique fact about Peden Stadium is that it is built into the side of a hill. The natural slope of the hillside provides a unique backdrop for the stadium and also helps to reduce the amount of excavation required for construction. This design feature has also helped to make Peden Stadium one of the most visually appealing and unique stadiums in the country.
In addition to its unique location, Peden Stadium is also known for its passionate and dedicated fan base. The Bobcats have some of the most loyal and enthusiastic fans in college football, with many alumni and local residents attending games year after year. This has helped to create a lively and exciting atmosphere at Peden Stadium, with fans cheering on the team and creating a sense of community and camaraderie.
Another interesting fact about Peden Stadium is that it was once used as a filming location for the movie “Escape from the Planet of the Apes.” The stadium was used as a stand-in for a fictional Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, and several scenes were filmed on location at Peden Stadium. This has helped to make the stadium a part of popular culture and adds to its unique history and legacy. According to reports, the production team for “Escape from the Planet of the Apes” chose Peden Stadium as a filming location due to its unique design and location. The hillside setting and classic architecture of the stadium made it a suitable stand-in for the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
Note that Peden Stadium is an important and beloved part of the Ohio University community, as well as the Ohio Bobcats football program. With a rich history and a passionate fan base, the stadium provides a home field advantage for the Bobcats and has played host to many memorable moments in program history. Whether you are a fan of college football or just looking for a fun and exciting way to spend a fall afternoon in Ohio, Peden Stadium is definitely worth a visit.
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