Dowdy-Ficklen

Stadium

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Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium

Capacity:
51,000
Country:
United States of America
Address:
100 Ficklen Dr, Greenville, NC 27858, United States
Surface:
Grass
Conference:
AAC
Tenant:
East Carolina Pirates
Opened:
September 21, 1963
Team:
East Carolina Pirates football
Cost:
$283,387
Our Reminder on Things to Do for the Best Experience
  1. Buy Tickets in Advance: Secure your tickets well in advance to get the best seats and avoid last-minute hassles. Check for additional Parking Passes. Check security requirements possibly no bags, or clear bags only?
  2. Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time to arrive at the stadium before the game starts. This will allow you to find parking, navigate the stadium, and soak in the pre-game atmosphere.
  3. Check the Schedule: Know the game schedule, as well as any pre-game events, tailgating parties, or fan experiences that might be happening on that day.
  4. Parking: Research parking options in advance, and consider using rideshare services or public transportation to avoid parking headaches.
  5. Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as you might be walking around a lot.
  6. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
  7. Bring ID and Tickets: Make sure to have your ID and tickets ready for security checks and entry into the stadium.
  8. Explore the Stadium: Take some time to explore the stadium, including its various levels and amenities.
  9. Try Local Food: Check out the food and beverage options within the stadium. Many stadiums offer local cuisine and unique food items.
  10. Capture Memories: Take photos to capture the memories. The stadium's design and the energetic crowd make for great photo opportunities.
  11. Respect Fan Etiquette: Respect the fans around you, regardless of which team they're supporting. Engaging in good sportsmanship enhances the overall experience.
  12. Follow Security Guidelines: Be aware of the stadium's security guidelines and cooperate with security personnel for a smooth entry process.
  13. Plan for Post-Game Traffic: Consider that traffic leaving the stadium can be heavy after the game ends. Have a plan for transportation after the event.
  14. Visit the Team Store: Check out the team store for merchandise and souvenirs to commemorate your visit.
  15. Download Apps: If the stadium has an official app, download it for real-time updates, interactive experiences, and information about the event.
  16. Respect Local Laws: Familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations to ensure a trouble-free experience.
  17. Weather Preparedness: Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly if the game is outdoors or has an outdoor component.
  18. Check for COVID-19 Guidelines: Stay updated on any COVID-19 related protocols or guidelines.
  19. Enjoy the Atmosphere: Immerse yourself in the excitement of being at a live game, cheer with fellow fans, and create lasting memories.

Nicknamed the “Rowdy Dowdy,” there is only one college football stadium where you can rock out to a Jimi Hendrix song! Before kickoff of each ECU game, Hendrix’s “Purple Haze” blares over the sound system at Dowdy Ficklen Stadium as the crowd goes crazy and the team runs onto the field. For five decades fans have been visiting the East Carolina University campus each Fall to see the Pirates play at Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium. The history of the stadium dates back to the early 1960s, when James S. Ficklen, a prominent member of the Greenville business community, led the way in getting a new stadium built for the Pirates. Costing just over $200,000, the Pirates played their first game at Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium on September 21, 1963 against Wake Forest. The stadium was built through public subscription funds and consisted of a 10,000 seat grandstand on the south side upon opening.


Expansion of the stadium began before the 1968 season, when the seating capacity was increased to 20,000 with the addition of the grandstand on the north side. Before the 1975 season, new lights were added and by the 1978 season, the seating capacity was increased to 35,000. This expansion also included a three tier press box. Before the 1991 season, $1.6 million was spent on general repairs to the stadium. Originally known as just Ficklen Stadium, it was renamed Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium in 1994, after Ronald and Mary Ellen Dowdy contributed $1 million to the university. In 1998 the upper deck was built on the north side of the stadium, boosting the capacity to 40,000. Prior to the 1999 season, club seats were added on the north side and a new $2 million videoboard was installed.


After winning several conference titles in the early 2000, the university expanded Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium to seat 50,000 fans. A 7,000 seat section was constructed in the east end zone prior to the start of the 2010 season. This expansion also included a new HD video/scoreboard. Before the start of the 2019 season a $60 million renovation project was completed at the stadium. It included a four story tower on the south side of the stadium that houses a club level, loge boxes and suites, increasing the capacity of the stadium to 51,000.