OPINION: USF’s football stadium will add much to college experience

While I love watching college football, I often find myself canceling on my friends when I am invited to a game after looking at the drive time to Raymond James Stadium. 

Whether you’re a commuter or someone who lives on campus, it’s no secret that going to watch a USF football game is inconvenient. There’s the 30-minute drive time with the combination of potential traffic in order to partake in a college gameday. 

The new USF stadium will eliminate a good portion of these challenges for on-campus students. It will boost the excitement surrounding the games, create team camaraderie and allow for more college events.

USF had an average of 37,944 visitors with a capacity percentage of 58.37%, according to D.1 Ticker’s 2023 attendance trends. Meanwhile, UCF – USF’s former war on I-4 rival equipped with its own stadium – had an average of 44,015 visitors with a capacity percentage of 97.16%. 

Related: USF selects date for stadium groundbreaking ceremony

The easier commute could help boost USF’s number of attendees. Students can spend time on campus and simply walk over. 

“While I haven’t been to any home games so far because of the commute, the stadium will make it a lot more convenient for me to attend and gain that experience,” said Jayden Johnson, a sophomore psychology major.

USF’s parking options will also enable multiple options for tailgating space, allowing students to make the games an all-day excursion, according to the USF website stadium page.

Related: USF Finance Committee approves construction agreement for campus stadium

In a recent meeting with the USF Board of Trustees Will Weatherford, the Board chair, said the new stadium “will allow us to activate the community around the campus.”

With the stadium acting as a new meeting space, students can create connections through their love of football and USF.

There’s no better way to bond with students than complaining about the opposing team while decked out in green and gold. And can you imagine doing so just right off your on campus dorm?

“I think the stadium will bring more attention to USF sports events in school and in turn increase students’ interest and excitement,” said Jazamin Toth, a sophomore in architecture. “I’m excited to be with other students in USF gear and cheering on our football team.”

Even if football is not your thing, the USF stadium – set to be open for the 2027 season – will also act as a home to USF lacrosse, and possibly concerts for the surrounding community.

Related: On-campus stadium is too costly

While we probably won’t be able to host Taylor Swift, we will have more room than just the Marshall Student Center or the Yuengling Center. The Yuengling Center holds 10,500 seats while the new stadium will hold 35,000 seats.

This project will be costly, around $340 million. However, I believe the stadium will bring the college spirit that USF has been missing. 

With the elimination of the long commute, students’ attendance will increase and lead to a deeper sense of community.

Wouldn’t you like to cheer and support your college team from the comfort of your own campus?