Gaylord Family - Oklahoma Memorial Stadium

Capacity:
86,112
Country:
United States of America
Address:
1185 Asp Ave, Norman, OK 73019, United States
Surface:
Grass
Conference:
Big 12
Tenant:
Oklahoma Sooners
Opened:
October 20, 1923
Team:
Oklahoma Sooners football
Cost:
$293,000
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.

Where will you find one the most unique mascots in college football? Look no further than in the heart of America in Norman, Oklahoma where the Sooner Schooner brings the crowd at Memorial Stadium to its feet each time Oklahoma scores. Pulled by two white ponies, the Sooner Schooner is a miniature version of the Conestoga wagon used by settlers of Oklahoma. It is driven by members of the Oklahoma spirit organization and has been part of Oklahoma football since 1964.


The history of Memorial Stadium dates back to the early 1920s when a group of students formed a committee to look into building a new stadium for the Sooners. Coach Bennie Owen helped secure much of the funding and in 1921 construction began on the Sooners new facility. Completed in two years, Memorial Stadium was named in honor of university personnel who died in World War I and the field was named in honor of Owen. The Sooners played their first game at Memorial Stadium on October 20, 1923 against Washington University. Built at a cost of $293,000, the stadium originally had 16,000 seats on the west side of the field. As support for the team grew over the years so did the stadium. In 1929, an additional 16,000 seats were added to the east side of Memorial Stadium. By 1949, the playing field was lowered and the running track was removed. New seating areas along the field and in the north end zone increased the capacity to 55,000.


Expansion continued in the 1950s when the south endzone bleachers were added increasing the seating capacity to 61,836. Like many other teams in the 1960s and ’70s, the grass field was replaced with Astroturf before the 1970 season. The upper deck on the west side and press box were constructed in 1975, boosting the capacity to 70,000. By 1980, the temporary bleachers that had been in the south endzone since 1957, were removed and replaced with permanent ones. This gave Memorial Stadium a seating capacity of 75,000. The artificial surface was removed before the 1994 season and replaced with natural grass. In 1995, nine suites were constructed on the west side and a new video/scoreboard was installed along with lights. A large renovation and expansion plan at Memorial Stadium was completed before the 2002 season. An upper deck was constructed on the east side of the stadium as 8,000 seats and 27 luxury suites were added. The facade of the north and west sides of Memorial Stadium were upgraded to match the Cherokee Gothic look of the Oklahoma campus. Furthermore, the video and audio systems were upgraded as new scoreboards were placed in both endzones. HD video/scoreboards were added in 2007. The latest project completed at Memorial Stadium enhances the gameday experience at Oklahoma games. Before the start of the 2016 the south endzone was completely revamped. The area includes lounge and club seats, but the most noticeable difference is the new massive scoreboard. Measuring 166 by 31 feet, it is one of the largest in college sports. This project is part of a $160 million multi-year project that will eventually include an updated and revamped west side of the stadium.


Today, the stadium has a seating capacity of 86,112 and has been the home to many legendary teams and players as the Sooners have won seven national titles and 45 conference championships.