Eastern Michigan Athletics
Football’s Home Opener Brings Excitement and Upgrades for Fans
9/11/2024 7:00:00 PM | Football
Parking lots open at 4 p.m., Eagle Walk starts at 4:45 p.m., and stadium gates open at 5:30 p.m.
Purchase Tickets | Student Tickets | Digitial Game Program
YPSILANTI, Mich. (EMUEagles.com) — This Saturday, Sept. 14, Rynearson Stadium will come alive as the Eastern Michigan University football team takes the field for its home opener against Jacksonville State University. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. For football fans, it marks the start of another thrilling season of EMU football, but the buzz extends beyond the game itself this year. With significant upgrades to the stadium and a host of fan-friendly additions, EMU is raising the bar for the game-day experience.
The First Game on Crosby Field: A Monumental Moment
This season opener will be more than just another football game — it will mark the first contest on the newly named Crosby Field, a nod to former Eagle standout and current Las Vegas Raider, Maxx Crosby. Crosby and his wife, Rachel, donated a generous $1 million to EMU Athletics, leading to a series of renovations on EMU's Athletic Campus, including installing a new gray turf. Saturday's game against Jacksonville State will debut the revamped playing surface, replacing the gray turf that had served for over a decade.
Fans can expect an emotional moment as the team takes the field, with Crosby's name now etched into EMU football history. The donation also reflects a growing commitment from alumni and the broader community to support EMU athletics.
Enhancing the Fan Experience: New Upgrades and Offerings
While the game on the field promises action, EMU has invested in creating an unparalleled fan experience off the field as well. The 2024 season ushers in exciting upgrades to provide fans with more options and conveniences on game day.
Kroger Kooler
Located near Section 109 on the west concourse, the Kroger Kooler introduces a grab-and-go marketplace to the stadium. Fans can quickly pick up their favorite stadium snacks, drinks, and candy, reducing wait times and ensuring more time to enjoy the game.
Eastern Market Brewing Co. Concession Stand
EMU has partnered with Eastern Market Brewing Co. to bring a new craft beer to the stadium. Named "Water Tower Power," this 4.5% ABV American lager was chosen through fan voting and is a tribute to the school and the vibrant Ypsilanti community. Fans can enjoy the beer at Rynearson Stadium and other EMU venues, adding a taste of local flavor to the game-day experience.
Expanded Food Truck Lineup
Variety is the spice of life, and EMU has taken that to heart by expanding its food truck lineup. This season, fans can indulge in more diverse offerings, from BBQ and Italian to shawarma and mini donuts, alongside classic stadium favorites like hot dogs and popcorn. The south endzone and concourse areas will feature multiple trucks, ensuring that no fan leaves hungry.
Special Fan Giveaways and Promotions
Red Robin Stadium Buttons will be given to the first 500 fans at every home game this season. These collectible buttons come with an extra treat: a free appetizer at Red Robin with the purchase of two entrees, valid for six days after the game at the Ypsilanti and Ann Arbor locations.
In addition, EMU students are in for a special treat with the Hard Hat Giveaway. The first 750 students to check in at "The Factory" will receive a free hard hat, celebrating the team's blue-collar work ethic and the students' dedicated support. This, combined with free admission for all students, makes it clear that EMU is committed to engaging its most passionate fans.
2024 football schedule posters will also be available for pickup at the marketing kiosk.
Easier Access and Enhanced Security
The gameday shuttle service is back, offering students free rides to and from Rynearson Stadium from key campus locations. The student shuttle service begins two hours before kickoff, ensuring a safe, convenient way to get to the game.
With the enhancements to fan amenities come updated security measures. Fans will still need to pass through metal detectors when entering Rynearson Stadium, and the clear bag policy remains in place. While these measures might create slight delays, they ensure a safer and more secure environment for everyone attending.
Students have free admission to all regular-season home events but must sign up for digital tickets to access the stadium. Students must enter through Gate 2 on the west side.
In-Game Video Upgrades
To complement the action on Crosby Field, EMU has upgraded its video board graphics and integrated in-game stats. Fans will now enjoy a more immersive viewing experience with high-quality replays and real-time statistical updates displayed on the board throughout the game.
Pre-Game Festivities
Saturday's home opener will kick off with the fan-favorite Eagle Walk—a pre-game tradition that unites fans, the Pride of the Peninsula marching band, and the EMU Spirit and Dance teams. Two hours and fifteen minutes before kickoff, fans are invited to gather at Gate 2 to cheer on the Eagles as they enter Rynearson Stadium.
EMU's Third Annual Car Show is adding to the game-day excitement, where a stunning array of local vehicles will be displayed around the stadium and next door at Oestrike Stadium. Fans will have the chance to vote on their favorite cars, blending the thrill of football with a bit of automotive flair. Additionally, LaFontaine Kia Ypsilanti, the official automotive partner of EMU Athletics, will be on hand to showcase some of their latest models.
Special Recognitions
EMU Athletics will honor former EMU Regents Phil Incarnati and Mike Morris by naming two facilities after them. The Student-Athlete Performance Center will be renamed after Incarnati, recognizing his $4 million contribution to the Championship Building Plan. Incarnati, an EMU alumnus and former football player, served on the Board of Regents for 18 years, including a decade as Chair. He is currently the President and CEO of McLaren Health Care.
Following their donations to the Athletic Department, Mike Morris and his wife, Linda, will have their names emblazoned on the Rynearson Stadium Press Box. Morris, a two-time EMU graduate and former CEO of American Electric Power, also served two terms on the Board of Regents.
EMU Athletics achieved a record-breaking fundraising year in fiscal 2024, raising over $14.5 million, surpassing the previous record of $9.8 million set in 2020. These funds were directed towards the Eastern Athletic Fund, sport-specific initiatives, capital projects, and legacy giving, all supporting over 500 student-athletes. This achievement reflects a growing trend in successful fundraising efforts for EMU Athletics.
Game Day Basics
- Kickoff: 7 p.m. at Rynearson Stadium.
- Eagle Walk: Begins at 4:45 p.m. outside Gate 2.
- Tickets: Available at the George Gervin GameAbove Center Atrium starting four hours before kickoff, online at EMUEagles.com/tickets, or by calling 734.487.3669.
A New Chapter for EMU Football
The 2024 home opener against Jacksonville State isn't just the start of a new season — it's the beginning of a new era for Eastern Michigan football. From the newly minted Crosby Field to the expansive fan experience upgrades, EMU is setting a high standard for what it means to attend a college football game.
Saturday's game promises a thrilling spectacle for both long-time fans and newcomers alike. With a host of new features designed to enhance every aspect of game day, Rynearson Stadium is ready to deliver one of the best fan experiences in the country.
YPSILANTI, Mich. (EMUEagles.com) — This Saturday, Sept. 14, Rynearson Stadium will come alive as the Eastern Michigan University football team takes the field for its home opener against Jacksonville State University. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. For football fans, it marks the start of another thrilling season of EMU football, but the buzz extends beyond the game itself this year. With significant upgrades to the stadium and a host of fan-friendly additions, EMU is raising the bar for the game-day experience.
The First Game on Crosby Field: A Monumental Moment
This season opener will be more than just another football game — it will mark the first contest on the newly named Crosby Field, a nod to former Eagle standout and current Las Vegas Raider, Maxx Crosby. Crosby and his wife, Rachel, donated a generous $1 million to EMU Athletics, leading to a series of renovations on EMU's Athletic Campus, including installing a new gray turf. Saturday's game against Jacksonville State will debut the revamped playing surface, replacing the gray turf that had served for over a decade.
Fans can expect an emotional moment as the team takes the field, with Crosby's name now etched into EMU football history. The donation also reflects a growing commitment from alumni and the broader community to support EMU athletics.
Enhancing the Fan Experience: New Upgrades and Offerings
While the game on the field promises action, EMU has invested in creating an unparalleled fan experience off the field as well. The 2024 season ushers in exciting upgrades to provide fans with more options and conveniences on game day.
Kroger Kooler
Located near Section 109 on the west concourse, the Kroger Kooler introduces a grab-and-go marketplace to the stadium. Fans can quickly pick up their favorite stadium snacks, drinks, and candy, reducing wait times and ensuring more time to enjoy the game.
Eastern Market Brewing Co. Concession Stand
EMU has partnered with Eastern Market Brewing Co. to bring a new craft beer to the stadium. Named "Water Tower Power," this 4.5% ABV American lager was chosen through fan voting and is a tribute to the school and the vibrant Ypsilanti community. Fans can enjoy the beer at Rynearson Stadium and other EMU venues, adding a taste of local flavor to the game-day experience.
Expanded Food Truck Lineup
Variety is the spice of life, and EMU has taken that to heart by expanding its food truck lineup. This season, fans can indulge in more diverse offerings, from BBQ and Italian to shawarma and mini donuts, alongside classic stadium favorites like hot dogs and popcorn. The south endzone and concourse areas will feature multiple trucks, ensuring that no fan leaves hungry.
Special Fan Giveaways and Promotions
Red Robin Stadium Buttons will be given to the first 500 fans at every home game this season. These collectible buttons come with an extra treat: a free appetizer at Red Robin with the purchase of two entrees, valid for six days after the game at the Ypsilanti and Ann Arbor locations.
In addition, EMU students are in for a special treat with the Hard Hat Giveaway. The first 750 students to check in at "The Factory" will receive a free hard hat, celebrating the team's blue-collar work ethic and the students' dedicated support. This, combined with free admission for all students, makes it clear that EMU is committed to engaging its most passionate fans.
2024 football schedule posters will also be available for pickup at the marketing kiosk.
Easier Access and Enhanced Security
The gameday shuttle service is back, offering students free rides to and from Rynearson Stadium from key campus locations. The student shuttle service begins two hours before kickoff, ensuring a safe, convenient way to get to the game.
With the enhancements to fan amenities come updated security measures. Fans will still need to pass through metal detectors when entering Rynearson Stadium, and the clear bag policy remains in place. While these measures might create slight delays, they ensure a safer and more secure environment for everyone attending.
Students have free admission to all regular-season home events but must sign up for digital tickets to access the stadium. Students must enter through Gate 2 on the west side.
In-Game Video Upgrades
To complement the action on Crosby Field, EMU has upgraded its video board graphics and integrated in-game stats. Fans will now enjoy a more immersive viewing experience with high-quality replays and real-time statistical updates displayed on the board throughout the game.
Pre-Game Festivities
Saturday's home opener will kick off with the fan-favorite Eagle Walk—a pre-game tradition that unites fans, the Pride of the Peninsula marching band, and the EMU Spirit and Dance teams. Two hours and fifteen minutes before kickoff, fans are invited to gather at Gate 2 to cheer on the Eagles as they enter Rynearson Stadium.
EMU's Third Annual Car Show is adding to the game-day excitement, where a stunning array of local vehicles will be displayed around the stadium and next door at Oestrike Stadium. Fans will have the chance to vote on their favorite cars, blending the thrill of football with a bit of automotive flair. Additionally, LaFontaine Kia Ypsilanti, the official automotive partner of EMU Athletics, will be on hand to showcase some of their latest models.
Special Recognitions
EMU Athletics will honor former EMU Regents Phil Incarnati and Mike Morris by naming two facilities after them. The Student-Athlete Performance Center will be renamed after Incarnati, recognizing his $4 million contribution to the Championship Building Plan. Incarnati, an EMU alumnus and former football player, served on the Board of Regents for 18 years, including a decade as Chair. He is currently the President and CEO of McLaren Health Care.
Following their donations to the Athletic Department, Mike Morris and his wife, Linda, will have their names emblazoned on the Rynearson Stadium Press Box. Morris, a two-time EMU graduate and former CEO of American Electric Power, also served two terms on the Board of Regents.
EMU Athletics achieved a record-breaking fundraising year in fiscal 2024, raising over $14.5 million, surpassing the previous record of $9.8 million set in 2020. These funds were directed towards the Eastern Athletic Fund, sport-specific initiatives, capital projects, and legacy giving, all supporting over 500 student-athletes. This achievement reflects a growing trend in successful fundraising efforts for EMU Athletics.
Game Day Basics
- Kickoff: 7 p.m. at Rynearson Stadium.
- Eagle Walk: Begins at 4:45 p.m. outside Gate 2.
- Tickets: Available at the George Gervin GameAbove Center Atrium starting four hours before kickoff, online at EMUEagles.com/tickets, or by calling 734.487.3669.
A New Chapter for EMU Football
The 2024 home opener against Jacksonville State isn't just the start of a new season — it's the beginning of a new era for Eastern Michigan football. From the newly minted Crosby Field to the expansive fan experience upgrades, EMU is setting a high standard for what it means to attend a college football game.
Saturday's game promises a thrilling spectacle for both long-time fans and newcomers alike. With a host of new features designed to enhance every aspect of game day, Rynearson Stadium is ready to deliver one of the best fan experiences in the country.
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