Jack Trice Stadium Information

Jack Trice Stadium was originally named Cyclone Stadium and formerly Jack Trice Field. This wonderful football stadium is located in Ames, Iowa, United States. Needless to say to fans, this is the home field of the Iowa State Cyclones since its opening.
Additionally, the stadium is the third-largest stadium by capacity in the Big 12 Conference and also the third-newest in the conference. Including hillside seats in the corners of the stadium, the facility’s official capacity is 61,500. The current record for single-game attendance, 61,500. This record was set on September 5, 2015, when the Cyclones defeated the University of Northern Iowa 31-7.
Over the years, Jack Trice Stadium has undergone several expansions and upgrades. Initially designed for a capacity of 42,500, it now accommodates up to 61,500 fans. Notable enhancements include:
- » The addition of a three-level press box in 1997
- » The installation of permanent lighting and a modern video scoreboard in 2002
- » The enclosure of the south end zone expansion in 2015, which not only increased seating but also connected the east and west concourses for improved fan flow.
The venue features double-decked grandstands along the sidelines and an encompassing structure around the expansion of the south end zone. The Richard O. Jacobson Building in the north end zone is the hub for Cyclone athletics, housing various sports and administrative offices. The field itself transitioned from AstroTurf to natural grass in 1996, offering a more traditional playing surface.
It has also hosted several major concerts and festivals over the years. While its primary function remains a sporting venue, it has sometimes transformed into a massive music arena, bringing in legendary artists and unforgettable performances.
During the late 20th century, guests could see several notable rock and pop music events. In 1989, The Rolling Stones performed with Living Colour as their opening act. That was followed by Paul McCartney in 1990. In subsequent years, Genesis and U2 held concerts there too. U2’s performance was part of their Zoo TV Tour, accompanied by Primus and Disposable Heroes of Hiphoprisy as their openers.
From its groundbreaking ceremony that took place on Oct. 26, 1973, to the first game, a victory over Air Force on Sept. 20, 1975, Jack Trice Stadium was completed in less than two years. Originally, the stadium only had a capacity of 42,500. The construction of Jack Trice Stadium was to replace Clyde Williams Field, which had been in use from 1914 through 1974.
In 1975, the stadium’s playing field was named in honor of Jack Trice, Iowa State’s first African American athlete. On October 6, 1923, Trice and his Iowa State College teammates played against rival University of Minnesota in Minneapolis, Minnesota. During the second play of the game, Trice’s collarbone was broken but he insisted that he was all right and returned to the game. In the third quarter, Trice attempted to tackle a University of Minnesota ball carrier by throwing a roll block, he was trampled by three Minnesota players in the process. Although he claimed to be fine, Trice was removed from the game by his coach and was sent to a Minneapolis hospital. The doctors declared him fit to travel and he returned by train to Ames with his teammates. Sadly, on October 8, 1923, Trice passed away. The coronary report shows the cause of death to be hemorrhaged lungs and internal bleeding as a result of the injuries sustained during the game. He was the school’s first athlete to die of injuries sustained during a Cyclone athletic competition. As a result of his death, ISU did not renew their contract to play against Minnesota until 1989.
Jack Trice Stadium was known as Cyclone Stadium up till 1997. Due to persistent requests by the students, the facility was renamed Jack Trice Stadium. It became the only stadium in Division I FBS named for an African American individual.
The stadium consists of double-decked grandstands along the length of both sidelines and the entire south end zone. The Richard O. Jacobson Athletic Building which is an athletic center was built in 1996 and is located in the north end zone. Additionally, the field itself is slightly lower than the surrounding ground. There is a single main concourse for each of the grandstands. In 1997, A three-level press box on the west side of the stadium was added to the stadium for a cost of $6.2 million. Permanent lighting and a large video/scoreboard behind the bleachers in the south end zone were added in 2002.
On May 1, 2008, planning and fundraising for the Jack Trice Expansion project was given the green light from the Iowa Board of Regents to continue. On November 25, 2013, an announcement was made that the Reiman family would donate $25 million to help complete the south end-zone project estimated at $60 million.
On a call-in show, ISU athletic director stated that more facility improvements will be continuing over the next few years. Iowa State’s head football coach Paul Rhoads also made similar comments about upgrades. The $20.6 million Bergstrom football complex, a state-of-the-art training facility was built between the indoor practice facility and the Jacobson building with opening and dedication in 2012.
Two years later, on February 6, 2014, Iowa State Athletics gained approval from the Iowa Board of Regents for the construction of the south end-zone final phase. It was this expansion that brought the stadium’s capacity from 54,800 to 61,500. The addition included enclosing the south end zone by adding an upper deck and connected the east side concourse to the west side concourse. Originally, the south end-zone project was scheduled to be completed at the same time as the east concourse renovation in 2015; however, funding was not secured for the south end-zone expansion, so the two projects were completed separately.
More upgrade plans are underway to renovate the Jacobsen Building, demolish the Olsen Building and expand/renovate the Bergstrom Football Complex. The plans include a multi-story building situated between the Jacobsen Building and the Bergstrom Football Complex, including a new football locker room, academic center, dining center, and Olympic sports locker rooms.
There are plenty of amenities and concessions to enhance fans’ game-day experience. You’ll find multiple concession stands throughout the concourses, providing a range of food options. Traditional game-day fare includes burgers, hot dogs, corn dogs, pizza, chicken tenders, and tacos. Additionally, fans can enjoy regional specialties such as pork tenderloin sandwiches and cheddar bratwurst. Prices for these items typically range from $5 to $11, depending on selections and combinations.
With upcoming events on the horizon, including ongoing facility enhancements and the planned renovations of the Jacobsen Building, west side, dining center, and athletic center, Jack Trice Stadium remains a powerhouse venue in college football. Whether you’re there for a match, an event, or to soak in history, it embodies the spirit of Iowa State University and its commitment to excellence on and off the field.
History of the Jack Trice Stadium in Ames, Iowa
The Jack Trice Stadium opened its doors in 1975 under the name Cyclone Stadium. Many memorable moments have taken place on its turf. Initially, the facility was referred to as Cyclone Stadium and Jack Trice Field, honoring Jack Trice’s legacy on the playing surface.
Jack Trice, the venue’s namesake, is significant in Iowa State’s history. Born in 1902, Trice was the university’s first African American athlete. Tragically, during a game against the University of Minnesota in 1923, he sustained injuries that led to his untimely death. His legacy, however, endured. In 1988, the field was named Jack Trice Field, and by 1997, the entire area was renamed Jack Trice Stadium, making it the only major college football stadium named in honor of an African American individual.
Ames, the city that cradles this iconic landmark, is a vibrant community located approximately 30 miles north of Des Moines. Home to Iowa State University, Ames boasts a rich blend of cultural, educational, and recreational offerings. The university significantly influences the city’s atmosphere, infusing it with youthful energy and fostering a culture of innovation.
Over the years, Jack Trice Stadium has undergone numerous renovations to enhance the experience for fans and players alike. These improvements have solidified its reputation as a premier destination in college football.
The city’s downtown area is a hub of activity, featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment spots. The Main Street Cultural District often hosts events, farmers’ markets, and festivals, contributing to the city’s dynamic community spirit.
In addition to its local charm, Ames is surrounded by several neighboring communities, each contributing to the region’s diversity and appeal. Cities such as Boone, Ankeny, and Nevada are within close proximity and offer additional amenities and attractions that complement Ames’s offerings.
To the community and anyone who visits, Jack Trice Stadium is so much more than just a sports venue – it is a landmark that embodies Ames’ rich history and vibrant community. Its evolution over the decades mirrors the growth and development of the city itself, standing as a proud symbol of heritage, progress, and community spirit.
Did you know?
After a hiatus of over two decades, live music made a grand return to Jack Trice Stadium. Country music icon George Strait, along with eight-time Grammy Award winner Chris Stapleton and special guests Little Big Town, performed to a sold-out crowd. This event marked a significant revival of the destination’s role as a major concert hotspot.
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Jack Trice Stadium Parking:
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Ticket Policies:
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Jack Trice Stadium Seating Chart:
View the main seating configuration for the Jack Trice Stadium events and find out more about accessible seating.