Why did the location of the Pride Practice Field and Facility change?
As the University continued to plan for a new practice facility, the needs of all involved evolved making the original on-campus location a less than ideal option. As a result, the leadership team began looking for a new space to be the permanent home of the marching band.
The University approached Mylan Park with the option of building the practice field and facility there. After several conversations, the decision was made in late 2023 to enter into the partnership agreement whereby Mylan Park would provide land at no cost for the field and facility.
The University renewed efforts to identify a suitable on-campus site after the announcement outlining plans to shift the project to Mylan Park generated concern among some stakeholders.
The Med Fields on the Health Sciences Campus, which were not previously available due to potential development, provide a convenient location next to the Health Sciences PRT Station addresses transportation concerns related to an off-campus site, as well as potential pedestrian safety issues associated with crossing Monongahela Boulevard to reach the former Hawley Field location. The site also already features lighting, and the band will have priority access to the Med Fields and ample parking in the adjacent parking lots.
Who else might use the field?
The Division of Student Life has generously agreed the band will have priority use of the field and facility. Intramural and other student groups will be able to reserve time on the field when it’s not in use by the band. The tower, sound system and storage facility will not be available to any group other than The Pride of West Virginia.
Many have donated toward the new field and facility. How will the money raised be used?
The College of Creative Arts Development Office and the WVU Foundation began fundraising for the facility nearly five years ago. Approximately $1.25 million has been raised in support of a new practice field and facility for the marching band. This money will still support this project in the new location. The money raised thus far is in the WVU Foundation account to be used for turf-field and facility construction costs.
No gifts held at the Foundation or funds from West Virginia University were transferred to Mylan Park in support of this project.
Will the new practice facility be identified as the WVU Pride of West Virginia Practice Facility?
Yes. While several generous major donors have chosen to name yard lines, we are thrilled to name the field the “Don Wilcox Field,” honoring a dear man whose marching band leadership and legacy are unmatched to this day. Naming rights for the facility are also still available.
What is the process and timeline to complete the project and for the band to begin using the Med Fields site?
The University Planning Committee has approved use of the site and the architect already involved in the project has been reengaged to design a field with the same amenities originally included in the first and future phases of the project. The new site will accommodate the planned turf field, storage facility and shelter.
We anticipate the process to complete a new design and gather cost estimates could be finalized in the next six months. Then, a Request for Procurement for construction will be issued and site work will take several more months. The goal is for the turf field to be ready for the band to begin using the site by August 2025.
Until then, the band will continue to use its current practice area.
Will alumni, family, friends, and fans still be able to watch rehearsals once the new field is completed?
Absolutely, and parking is available at the adjacent Mountaineer Station.
