As of February 2025, the new Pride Practice Field and Facility project to be located at the Med Fields on the Health Sciences Campus remains on schedule 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.
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?
On February 21, 2025, the WVU Board of Governors approved approximately $1.6 million for the Pride Practice Field and Facility project. This amount includes existing and ongoing donor support in addition to university allocated funds from various entities that will benefit from the new field, including the Division of Student Life.
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?
In March 2024, the University Planning Committee approved use of the Med Fields site, and an architect drafted plans for phase one, which includes the creation of an artificial turf football field and relocation of the band tower. The Med Fields site already features lighting for evening practices.
The University conducted a formal Request for Proposal (RFP) process to receive bids for phase one of the project, and a selection committee decided on the best proposal in February 2025.
After a review of these preliminary steps, the WVU Board of Governors approved approximately $1.6 million for the first phase of construction set to begin in early March with anticipated completion in July ahead of fall band camp.
Later phases envision the construction of a new storage building and a covered pavilion.
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.
