Vanderbilt plans to build a new soccer and lacrosse complex alongside its plans for a new football experience center, the university announced in a release March 11. Contained in that release were renderings for both projects.
The university is raising $300 million for the entire project.
The football experience center, announced in November, was said at that time to contain an indoor practice field, a weight room, sports science center, locker room and new offices. According to the March 11 release, the center would contain “training, recovery, coaching and administrative functions.”
The renderings did not show any of the planned interior of the building but appeared to show the location of it being adjacent to the outdoor practice fields, where the soccer and lacrosse complex is currently located.
As such, Vanderbilt is also planning to build a new soccer and lacrosse complex. From the renderings, it was not clear where that complex would be located. However, the release said that the new complex would contain “a new home for Vanderbilt soccer and lacrosse and an Olympic Sports Center with locker rooms and facilities for multiple programs.”
The release also said that Jess Neely Drive, which is now closed to vehicle traffic, would add “food vendors, retail kiosks, pop-up installations and more.”
“I am so humbled, as football coach, to have leadership that sets the course for our team’s success — and so grateful, as an alum and former student-athlete, that they invest that same energy in every individual,” Vanderbilt football coach Clark Lea said in the release. “With the support of our fans who power the National Commodore Club, Vandy United shows everyone what is possible here. Now is the time to take the next step. We have the opportunity to push forward and reach for more. We need everyone committed to the mission because we have the opportunity to win national championships.”
Aria Gerson covers Vanderbilt athletics for The Tennessean. Contact her at [email protected] or on X @aria_gerson.
