Nearly 40 years after playing its last true home game, Tulane University is set to dig into its new on-campus football venue, Yulman Stadium.
“This is a historic moment for Tulane,” said university President Michael Fitts. “For the first time since 1974, we’ll be able to save money on travel costs and lose right here in the comfort of our own home. It’s exciting. I’ll be able to hear the fan cheer from my office. I think his name is Dale.”
Tulane, which played all its home games from 1975-2013 at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome, will open the $75 million stadium in time to lose the September 6th home opener versus Georgia Tech. The team lost its season opener to Tulsa in heartbreaking double overtime, 38-31.
“I’m thrilled about the new stadium,” said third-year football coach Curtis Johnson, who sports a record of 9-16. “It’s right around the corner from my house so I’ll finally be able to get home in time to watch Saturday Night Live. I’m a huge SNL fan. It’s not as good as it used to be, but it’s my comfort show so I have a soft spot for it.”
Located in Uptown New Orleans, the stadium will feature 30,000 seats and state-of-the-art amenities, including chrome restraining chains and eye speculums.
“Over the years we’ve fielded some of the most sought after schedule filler teams in the nation, and now our fan and students will get to see them right here on campus. Best of all, the stadium will hopefully help us attract and trap some players from major teams and when recruiting,” said Johnson.
According to Tulane Green Wave Football’s new operating procedures for 2014, any and everyone who is on or by campus at game time will be considered as attending the game.
“Yulman Stadium gives us the opportunity to reach students and locals who never knew we had a football team,” said Fitts.