19 Surprising Facts About Autzen Stadium

Autzen Stadium has a seating capacity of 54,000.

With a capacity of 54,000, Autzen Stadium is a sprawling sports arena located in Eugene, Oregon. It is the home stadium of the University of Oregon Ducks football team.

The stadium was named after Thomas J. Autzen.

Autzen Stadium is named in honor of Thomas J. Autzen, a Portland businessman, and philanthropist who donated a substantial amount of money for its construction in the late 1960s.

It was the first stadium on the West Coast to install an artificial turf.

In 1969, Autzen Stadium became the first stadium on the West Coast to install an artificial turf known as AstroTurf. This innovative move was revolutionary at the time and set a new standard for many other sports stadiums.

Autzen Stadium is known for its loud and intimidating atmosphere.

The stadium has gained a reputation for its loud and passionate fans who create an electrifying atmosphere on game days. The noise levels at Autzen Stadium can reach up to 120 decibels, making it one of the noisiest college football venues in the country.

The stadium has hosted numerous notable sporting events.

Autzen Stadium has hosted several high-profile sporting events, including NFL exhibitions, conference championships, and the NCAA Track and Field Championships. Its versatile design allows it to accommodate various sports other than football.

Autzen Stadium features a unique field design.

The field at Autzen Stadium has a distinct design known as the “Mighty Oregon” stencil, featuring the outline of the state of Oregon in the center and the word “Oregon” written diagonally across it. This design has become an iconic symbol of Oregon Ducks football.

The stadium has undergone multiple renovations.

Over the years, Autzen Stadium has undergone several renovations to enhance the spectator experience and improve facilities. These renovations have included the addition of luxury suites, improved seating arrangements, and upgraded amenities.

Autzen Stadium offers scenic views of the surrounding area.

Situated on the banks of the Willamette River, Autzen Stadium provides stunning views of the lush Oregon landscape. The panoramic views from the stadium enhance the overall game-day experience for fans.

The first game played at Autzen Stadium was in 1967.

The inaugural game at Autzen Stadium took place on September 23, 1967, with the Oregon Ducks facing the Colorado Buffaloes. The Ducks celebrated their new home stadium with a 17-13 victory.

Autzen Stadium has a unique noise-enhancing structure.

Autzen Stadium’s architectural design includes a double-deck horseshoe-shaped seating arrangement that helps trap and amplify crowd noise, adding to the stadium’s intimidating atmosphere.

The stadium’s playing surface is named after a former coach.

The playing surface at Autzen Stadium is named Rich Brooks Field in honor of Rich Brooks, a former head football coach at the University of Oregon. Brooks achieved notable success during his tenure and led the Ducks to several bowl game appearances.

Autzen Stadium has hosted ESPN’s College GameDay multiple times.

Due to its vibrant football culture and passionate fan base, Autzen Stadium has been selected as a host site for ESPN’s College GameDay on multiple occasions. The popular college football pregame show draws enormous crowds and brings nationwide exposure to the stadium.

The stadium has a state-of-the-art video scoreboard.

Autzen Stadium features a high-definition video scoreboard that provides fans with a crystal-clear view of game replays, highlights, and other multimedia content. The scoreboard adds to the overall game-day experience for both casual spectators and die-hard fans.

Autzen Stadium has its own museum.

Adjacent to the stadium, there is a museum dedicated to the history of Oregon Ducks football. The museum showcases memorabilia, trophies, and artifacts from significant moments in the team’s history, offering fans an opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich football heritage of the University of Oregon.

The stadium is environmentally friendly.

Autzen Stadium is known for its commitment to sustainability. It has implemented various eco-friendly practices, including the use of solar panels to generate renewable energy and the promotion of recycling and waste reduction during events.

Autzen Stadium has hosted concerts and other entertainment events.

In addition to being a premier football venue, Autzen Stadium has also hosted concerts by renowned artists and bands. Its spacious layout and top-notch acoustics make it an ideal venue for live music performances and other entertainment events.

The stadium has inspired a popular cheer.

Autzen Stadium is responsible for the creation of the famous “Ooooh!” chant. During games, fans collectively chant “Ooooh!” in anticipation of a big play or touchdown by the Oregon Ducks, creating an electrifying atmosphere.

Autzen Stadium has a dedicated student section called the “O-Zone.”

The O-Zone is the designated seating area for University of Oregon students at Autzen Stadium. It is known for its enthusiastic and spirited fans who bring energy and excitement to every game.

Autzen Stadium is a beloved landmark in the community.

Autzen Stadium holds a special place in the hearts of Eugene residents and Oregon Ducks fans. It serves as a gathering place for the community, bringing people together to support their favorite team and create lasting memories.

These 19 surprising facts about Autzen Stadium highlight its rich history, architectural uniqueness, and impact on the community. Whether you’re a football fanatic or a casual fan, visiting Autzen Stadium is an experience that should be on every sports lover’s bucket list.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Autzen Stadium is not only a beloved landmark, but it also boasts some fascinating and surprising facts. From its unique architecture to its impressive seating capacity, Autzen Stadium stands as a symbol of Oregon’s passion for sports. The stadium’s noise level and the “Autzen roar” have gained it a reputation as one of the loudest college football stadiums in the country. Autzen Stadium is not just a place to watch a game; it’s an experience that every sports enthusiast should have.Whether you’re a die-hard Oregon Ducks fan or just interested in sports history, Autzen Stadium offers something for everyone. Its rich traditions, vibrant atmosphere, and unforgettable moments make it a must-visit landmark. So, the next time you find yourself in Eugene, Oregon, make sure to stop by Autzen Stadium and witness the magic firsthand. You won’t be disappointed!

FAQs

1. When was Autzen Stadium built?

Autzen Stadium was originally built in 1967 and has since undergone several renovations to improve its facilities and enhance the fan experience.

2. What is the seating capacity of Autzen Stadium?

Autzen Stadium has a seating capacity of approximately 54,000, making it one of the largest college football stadiums in the Pac-12 Conference.

3. How loud does Autzen Stadium get?

Autzen Stadium is known for generating high levels of noise during games, earning it the reputation of being one of the loudest college football stadiums in the country. The crowd’s energy and the “Autzen roar” can reach decibel levels exceeding 120 dB.

4. What other events take place at Autzen Stadium?

In addition to college football games, Autzen Stadium also hosts various events such as concerts, high school football games, and other community gatherings.

5. Can I take a tour of Autzen Stadium?

Yes, guided tours of Autzen Stadium are available for visitors who want to explore the stadium’s facilities, learn about its history, and get behind-the-scenes insights.

6. Can I buy tickets to a game at Autzen Stadium?

Yes, tickets for Oregon Ducks football games at Autzen Stadium can be purchased online or at the stadium’s ticket office, subject to availability.

7. Are there any parking facilities at Autzen Stadium?

Yes, Autzen Stadium has parking lots available for visitors. However, it is recommended to arrive early on game days as parking can fill up quickly.