Here stands Gayle and Tom Benson Stadium a testament to local passion. The stadium is named after Tom Benson and his wife Gayle. They were ardent supporters of the University of the Incarnate Word. This is their home field.
Gayle and Tom Benson Stadium officially opened on September 1 2008. A grand opening ceremony was held. The Bensons joined over 2000 Cardinals fans and athletes. Together they declared the facility ready for action. Tom Benson was the owner of the New Orleans Saints. He was a San Antonio native. He provided the necessary funds to start the university’s football program. Sadly Tom Benson passed away in 2018.
The stadium seats 6000 people. It has been expanded since its opening. In 2010 the north bleachers were added. This addition doubled the seating capacity. Six suites are atop the original south seating areas. Two press boxes sit on the north side. These are for media and game operations. KUIW Internet Radio and UIWTV now have a permanent home.
In May 2018 the original Hellas Matrix artificial playing surface was replaced. It now features FieldTurf’s Classic HD surface. The stadium boasts an eight-lane track. It has a Sport Track 300 surface. This all-weather surface surrounds the field. Three jumping pits adjoin the track. A Daktronics scoreboard is behind the west endzone. It has a twenty by ten feet video screen. Cardinals fans can view the game and get the latest team information.
The Benson Fieldhouse adjoins the football field. This 16000-square-foot facility houses essential amenities. There is a weight room and an athletic training facility. You will also find locker rooms team meeting areas and coaches’ offices.
The stadium has witnessed some memorable games. The record attendance was 6498. It was recorded on November 17 2016. The Cardinals played against Houston Baptist. The final score was 28-26.
The stadium is more than just a sports venue. It’s a gathering place for the community. It is a place where memories are made and celebrated. It is located near downtown San Antonio.
Several tourist attractions are nearby. These include the Witte Museum and the McNay Art Museum. You can also visit the San Antonio Botanical Gardens and Brackenridge Park.
Before or after a game stroll through the UIW campus. The architecture and public art are amazing.