Fieldhouse of dreams: Regents approve Pack’s plan

On Friday, the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) Board of Regents gave final approval for construction of an on-campus indoor fieldhouse and resurfacing of two turf fields at the University of Nevada.

Groundbreaking for the fieldhouse, to be located at the southeast entrance of Mackay Stadium, is set to take place later this summer, with completion targeted for summer 2026.

The 72,000-square foot facility is planned for multi-purpose use. The fieldhouse’s 110 yards of indoor turf and recreation space can accommodate Nevada club and intramural sports. The facility also provides a practice area for the marching band and spirit teams. Opportunities will also exist for ROTC exercises, ASUN and community events, youth sports, and pregame events.

 “With the approval by the Board of Regents, the entire University stands to benefit from the new fieldhouse. In addition to the major leap forward that Wolf Pack Athletics will experience, the University’s emphasis on student success also benefits greatly,” said university president Brian Sandoval. “From the very beginning, we have envisioned the fieldhouse as enhancing the student experience for all students through its multi-use nature.”

WHAT THEY’RE SAYING

Jeff Choate — football coach

“Having an indoor facility at the University of Nevada is long overdue. It is a total gamechanger for all of our athletic programs and also for our student body. The ability for our student body to recreate and have intramural sports and for our program to have the ability to prepare when the weather is inclement is something that’s needed. It is especially critical given that we’re the only Division I program in a cold-weather climate that doesn’t yet have such a facility.”

Vanessa Valentine — women’s soccer coach

“The new indoor facility is an absolute gamechanger for our student athletes, our program, future recruits, and for the University. It shows growth and investment. We are grateful to have the support of President Sandoval and the Nevada student body, as this facility is going to help bridge the gap to the student athlete experience. We will now have the advantage of having this safe space to train year-round in a climate-controlled environment. We’re excited for this facility furthering the future of our athletic department and women’s soccer, allowing us to continue to grow and compete at a higher level.”

Carmina Aglubat — ASUN president

“The Fieldhouse boasts exciting opportunities for the University of Nevada. Infrastructure is always an incredible thing for universities. However, it is even better when the infrastructure is built to enhance the exciting parts of the student experience and when members of the student body can actively engage with the space. Officers of the Associated Students are excited to use the space for engaging programming; intermural and club sports members are energized to use it for practice and games; and all students have the chance to walk onto the field for both structured and unstructured activity. I always like to say, ‘now is not the time to play it small- play big.’ This initiative is the definition of playing it big. It is more than just a building; it represents a legacy full of endless opportunities for generations to come.”