Stadium construction on schedule for fall opening

The construction of the E. Claiborne Robins Stadium, which began in December 2008, is still on track to be completed by the first home football game next season on Sept. 18, 2010.

University of Richmond architect Andrew McBride said the stadium was almost halfway completed, and no major problems have arisen so far, and the project is still within budget. According to the university construction Web site, the stadium will feature a new scoreboard, a high-tech sound system and a real-time Web cam, accessible online. The 8,700-seat stadium will be used by the university's football, lacrosse, soccer and track and field teams, and will also be used for community events.

Director of Athletics Jim Miller said the name of the stadium had been changed from First Market Stadium to Robins Stadium "to recognize the significant contribution Robins and his family have made to the success of the University of Richmond." Robins announced the name at a black-tie event on Sept. 16, celebrating the 40th anniversary of Robins' $50 million donation to the university.

More than 400 donors contributed to the funding of the stadium, and in 2007, Earl Dickinson Jr., Richmond College '75, pledged $2 million, according to the university construction Web site. The stadium's playing field will be named Dickinson Field in honor of his father, Earl Dickinson Sr., RC '48.

Contact staff writer Avril Lighty at avril.lighty@richmond.edu

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