Eastern Michigan Athletics
Rynearson Stadium’s Original Gray Turf Era Comes to a Close
3/29/2024 7:14:00 PM | Football
Eastern Michigan will begin renovation of the venue next week
Practice Highlights | Purchase Tickets
YPSILANTI, Mich. (EMUEagles.com) – The echoes of clashing pads and roaring cheers reverberated through Rynearson Stadium one final time as Eastern Michigan University's football team bid adieu to the original gray turf that has defined its home ground for the past 10 years. With the onset of spring, the stadium is set to undergo a remarkable transformation, marking the end of an era and the dawn of a new chapter in EMU Athletics history.
In a practice steeped in nostalgia and anticipation, the team completed its last spring opportunity on the gray turf on Friday, March 29. Affectionately dubbed "The Factory," the stadium has been a crucible of grit and determination for EMU's athletes, a symbol of their commitment to excellence even in the face of adversity. However, with change on the horizon, the team prepares to bid farewell to the storied playing surface.
Beginning next week, Rynearson Stadium will undergo a metamorphosis as the track is removed and a new gray playing surface is laid down. The project, expected to be completed by late May, signifies more than just a cosmetic upgrade; it marks a significant shift in the landscape for all EMU athletes.
The transformation does not stop at the turf. The 2024 season promises to be one of unprecedented change and growth. In a gesture of support, NFL All-Pro and former EMU standout Maxx Crosby, along with his wife Rachel Crosby, generously donated $1 million to the university, leading to the renaming of the playing surface to "Maxx Crosby Field."
Moreover, EMU is set to enhance its athletic facilities with the construction of a new outdoor track & field complex adjacent to the Westview Apartments. This project, bolstered by a $2 million gift from former EMU student-athletes Dan McClory and Keith Moore, will finally give the track & field program a home of its own to support its storied championship-caliber program.
The significance of these changes extends beyond the realm of athletics. The concept of "E Tough," born from the region's industrial heritage and embraced by EMU's football program, symbolizes resilience and determination in the face of adversity. "The Factory" serves as a constant reminder of the values instilled in EMU's student-athletes – a commitment to excellence, perseverance, and camaraderie.
The concept of the "EMU Gray" field was first born during one of the squad's notoriously intense winter workouts in 2014. The squad was challenged to an outdoor practice on the snow-covered Rynearson Stadium field rather than the warm confines of their indoor practice facility. True to their E Tough demeanor, the team accepted the challenge. Throughout each drill of the bitter cold practice, Head Coach Chris Creighton delivered the message that EMU Football has the will to compete against "anyone, anytime and anywhere" even on a parking lot covered with broken glass." Inspired by his team's toughness and commitment that day, Creighton's idea of an "EMU Gray" field was born and soon shared with administrators.
The moniker, "The Factory" serves as visual and name recognition for the program's ideals. They are a constant reminder to the student-athletes that being E Tough means coming ready to roll up their sleeves and never give in or let up.
"Our colors are green and white but our collars are blue," Creighton famously said. "The Factory is where our coaching staff goes to work and our players develop. It is our home and one that we will protect. When opponents come to The Factory we want to make it known that they are in for a 60-minute fight."
As the stadium undergoes its transformation, EMU's football team remains focused on the task at hand. The upcoming spring practice sessions offer an opportunity for players and coaches alike to refine their skills and prepare for the challenges ahead.
For supporters eager to be a part of EMU's journey, season tickets offer a range of options, from exclusive benefits to premium seating arrangements. Whether it's securing a piece of "The Factory" turf or enjoying VIP amenities, season ticket holders can expect an unparalleled experience at Rynearson Stadium in 2024.
YPSILANTI, Mich. (EMUEagles.com) – The echoes of clashing pads and roaring cheers reverberated through Rynearson Stadium one final time as Eastern Michigan University's football team bid adieu to the original gray turf that has defined its home ground for the past 10 years. With the onset of spring, the stadium is set to undergo a remarkable transformation, marking the end of an era and the dawn of a new chapter in EMU Athletics history.
In a practice steeped in nostalgia and anticipation, the team completed its last spring opportunity on the gray turf on Friday, March 29. Affectionately dubbed "The Factory," the stadium has been a crucible of grit and determination for EMU's athletes, a symbol of their commitment to excellence even in the face of adversity. However, with change on the horizon, the team prepares to bid farewell to the storied playing surface.
Beginning next week, Rynearson Stadium will undergo a metamorphosis as the track is removed and a new gray playing surface is laid down. The project, expected to be completed by late May, signifies more than just a cosmetic upgrade; it marks a significant shift in the landscape for all EMU athletes.
The transformation does not stop at the turf. The 2024 season promises to be one of unprecedented change and growth. In a gesture of support, NFL All-Pro and former EMU standout Maxx Crosby, along with his wife Rachel Crosby, generously donated $1 million to the university, leading to the renaming of the playing surface to "Maxx Crosby Field."
Moreover, EMU is set to enhance its athletic facilities with the construction of a new outdoor track & field complex adjacent to the Westview Apartments. This project, bolstered by a $2 million gift from former EMU student-athletes Dan McClory and Keith Moore, will finally give the track & field program a home of its own to support its storied championship-caliber program.
The significance of these changes extends beyond the realm of athletics. The concept of "E Tough," born from the region's industrial heritage and embraced by EMU's football program, symbolizes resilience and determination in the face of adversity. "The Factory" serves as a constant reminder of the values instilled in EMU's student-athletes – a commitment to excellence, perseverance, and camaraderie.
The concept of the "EMU Gray" field was first born during one of the squad's notoriously intense winter workouts in 2014. The squad was challenged to an outdoor practice on the snow-covered Rynearson Stadium field rather than the warm confines of their indoor practice facility. True to their E Tough demeanor, the team accepted the challenge. Throughout each drill of the bitter cold practice, Head Coach Chris Creighton delivered the message that EMU Football has the will to compete against "anyone, anytime and anywhere" even on a parking lot covered with broken glass." Inspired by his team's toughness and commitment that day, Creighton's idea of an "EMU Gray" field was born and soon shared with administrators.
The moniker, "The Factory" serves as visual and name recognition for the program's ideals. They are a constant reminder to the student-athletes that being E Tough means coming ready to roll up their sleeves and never give in or let up.
"Our colors are green and white but our collars are blue," Creighton famously said. "The Factory is where our coaching staff goes to work and our players develop. It is our home and one that we will protect. When opponents come to The Factory we want to make it known that they are in for a 60-minute fight."
As the stadium undergoes its transformation, EMU's football team remains focused on the task at hand. The upcoming spring practice sessions offer an opportunity for players and coaches alike to refine their skills and prepare for the challenges ahead.
For supporters eager to be a part of EMU's journey, season tickets offer a range of options, from exclusive benefits to premium seating arrangements. Whether it's securing a piece of "The Factory" turf or enjoying VIP amenities, season ticket holders can expect an unparalleled experience at Rynearson Stadium in 2024.
Season tickets can be purchased by calling the Eastern Athletics Ticket Office at 734.487.3669, by going online to EMUEagles.com/tickets. Fans can also visit the Ticket Office located inside the George Gervin GameAbove Center from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday thru Friday. For full ticket information, visit https://app.emueagles.com/FBRenewals.
This season, Eastern Michigan will host Buffalo, Central Michigan, Miami, and Toledo, while traveling to Akron, Kent State, Ohio, Western Michigan. EMU's non-conference schedule includes trips to UMass, Aug. 31, and national runner-up Washington, Sept. 7, as well as home contests against Jacksonville State, Sept. 14, and Saint Francis (Pa.), Sept. 21.
Season tickets are the most cost-effective way to enjoy a fall event in Washtenaw County and this season there are a variety of options available. The benefits of being a 2024 season ticket holder include: a piece of the turf from "The Factory" with an official certificate of authenticity; invitations to exclusive season ticket holder events; printed season ticket holder group photo; and an official Eastern Athletics corporate partner coupon book.
Promotional information and themes for the upcoming season will be announced at a later date.
Ultimate fan season tickets include a new and improved chairback with increased legroom on the 50-yard line along with VIP season parking for just $180. Additional chairback season tickets are available in Reserved Sections 104-109 for only $150.
Reserved season tickets are available for $120 or general admission season tickets are $108. Eastern Michigan faculty, staff, and young alumni (35-and-under) season tickets are only $84. Additionally, former EMU student-athletes can purchase an E-Club membership for $200 that provides season tickets for all home football, men's basketball, and women's basketball games. To purchase E-Club season memberships, please call the Eastern Athletics Ticket Office at 734.487.3669.
The alumni season value pack also returns for just $240, which includes four tickets per game. Meanwhile, VIP season parking in the George Gervin GameAbove Center parking lot will also be available for $60.
Below is the upcoming schedule for this year's spring practices (times are subject to change):
OPPORTUNITY 10: Monday, April 1 - 3:10 p.m.
OPPORTUNITY 11: Wednesday, April 3 - 3:10 p.m.
OPPORTUNITY 12: Friday, April 5 - 3:30 p.m.
OPPORTUNITY 13: Monday, April 8 - 3:10 p.m.
OPPORTUNITY 14: Wednesday, April 10 - 3:10 p.m.
OPPORTUNITY 15: Friday, April 12 - 6:30 p.m. - Spring game
*** NOTICE ***
Media and guests requesting to attend practice must give 24-hours notice to verify practice times and availability. During practice, all visitors and media are expected to remain off the playing field at all times and video/photos are only allowed with permission from the football operations or media relations staff in attendance at the practice.
EMU Football Pregame Press Conference: Week 2 vs. LIU
Monday, September 01
EMU Football Week One Hype Video
Saturday, August 30
EMU Football Pregame Press Conference: Week 1 at Texas State
Monday, August 25
Rooks Set to Lead in Sixth Year at Eastern
Saturday, August 23