Maryland stadium

(SECU Stadium)

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Maryland stadium (SECU Stadium)

Capacity:
51,802
Country:
United States of America
Address:
90 Stadium Dr, College Park, MD 20742, United States
Surface:
Fieldturf
Conference:
Big Ten
Tenant:
Maryland Terrapins
Opened:
September 30, 1950
Team:
Maryland Terrapins football
Cost:
$1 million
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 in the world will you find a 300 pound terrapin? If you guessed at the University of Maryland’s football stadium you would be correct. Located on the field is a statue of the university’s mascot, Testudo where before every home game players touch the statue for good luck. The home of the Terps is the second stadium that the team has called home. For over two decades the football team played at a 5,000 seat facility that opened in 1923. Due to its small size, the University of Maryland decided to build a new state of the art football complex for the Terrapins in the late 1940s. Constructed in 1950, the new opened on September 30, 1950 when the Terrapins played Navy before a huge crowd of over 43,000. The stadium was named after Harry Cliff Byrd, President of the University of Maryland from 1935 to 1954.


When it opened in 1950, Byrd Stadium had a capacity of 34,860 but temporary bleachers often led to huge crowds. A single tier grandstand in a horseshoe shape enclosed the gridiron. By the late 1980s, Maryland decided to expand Byrd Stadium. After the 1990 season, the Tyson Tower, a five tier building containing the press box and luxury suites was constructed on the south side of the stadium. By the 1996 season, a 12,000 seat upper deck was added bringing the seating capacity to 48,000. In 2006 a $50 million expansion project was approved to continue to enlarge Byrd Stadium. Completed by the 2008 season, this project added 60 luxury suites, a 150 seat president deck, 560 covered seats and 2,000 seats. In August 2006, the University of Maryland sold the naming rights to Chevy Chase Bank (acquired by Capital One) for $20 million over 25 years. Prior to the start of the 2012 season, the grass field was replaced with Fieldturf. In December 2015 Byrd Stadium was renamed Maryland Stadium after disagreements regarding the stadium being named after Harry Cliff Byrd.