Known mainly for its basketball program,
the football program has been a staple at the University of Kentucky
since 1881. In the 1970s, after over five decades at Stoll Field, the
Wildcats need a new football facility to meet SEC Stadium requirements. Stoll Field
could not be expanded, therefore the University of Kentucky decided to
build a new football stadium, Commonwealth Stadium. On September 15,
1973 the Wildcats christened Commonwealth Stadium against the Virginia
Tech Hokies.
At a cost of $12 million, the stadium originally
had a capacity of 57,800. By the late 1990s, the Wildcats decided to
expand Commonwealth Stadium to meet the growing fan base.In 1999, the
stadium was enclosed on both ends and 40 new suites were added
increasing the capacity
to 67,600. Additionally, two Diamond Vision
video boards and a new sound system were added. Today,
the lower deck surrounds the playing field and upper decks are located
on both sides of the gridiron. The luxury suites and press box are
located between the seating decks. The Wildcats hope to continue to
build their fan base up and create championship caliber teams like
their basketball program.
MERCHANDISE
2010 SCHEDULE
WILDCATS TIDBITS
Commonwealth
Stadium 24KT
Gold Coin Photo Mint 13"x16" Limited to 5,000
Commonwealth
Stadium Silver Coin Card 4"x6" Limited to
10,000