Here stands a testament to Cebu’s sporting dreams the University of San Carlos Stadium. This stadium is located on the University of San Carlos’s Talamban campus. It represents more than just a sports venue. It embodies a vision for athletic excellence.
Construction began in 2005. The earthworks involved carving two hills. This phase finished in 2011. A dam was also built to ensure a reliable water source for the field. Imagine the scale of such an undertaking. It reshaped the landscape to create this arena.
Ike Madamba was the architect. He also led the renovation of the Rizal Memorial Stadium. The University of San Carlos Stadium was planned to be completed by 2012.
Global Cebu F.C. considered using it as their home. This would have provided funds for its completion. The Philippine Football Federation approved the stadium as the club’s home venue. Ultimately Global Cebu F.C. chose the Cebu City Sports Complex instead.
Early pictures of the University of San Carlos Stadium amazed many. People wondered when the Azkals would play here. The team officials fell in love with the facility even in its unfinished state. Global Cebu F.C. choosing the University of San Carlos Stadium seemed like a perfect match. It would benefit Cebu football and the Philippines. Global was willing to cover the cost of completing the stadium. The University of San Carlos would be the only school with a football stadium on its campus.
The University of San Carlos Stadium’s location is secluded. This makes it a great venue for international clubs. They could train here during winter breaks. Japanese beach volleyball teams chose Cebu for winter training in 2014. This helped promote Cebu as a venue for pros. AFC officials considered the possibility of Japanese clubs using the stadium for winter training. This could boost Cebu City tourism and provide income for the school.
If completed the University of San Carlos Stadium could host an Azkal game. This would delight football fans in the Visayas. A live broadcast would provide free advertising for the University of San Carlos. The Azkals left their home at the Rizal Memorial Stadium. The University of San Carlos Stadium could become their new home in Visayas.
The University of San Carlos Stadium is the centerpiece of a planned Athlete’s Village. This was a dream of former director Fr. Vic Uy. Richard Dakay said the stadium construction involved six years of work. The stadium was carved out of two hills. The school built a 5000-cubic meter dam to water the field.
The stadium can hold 8000 people. The University of San Carlos Stadium has been used for events. During the University of San Carlos Days 2016 students enjoyed sports events here. The University of San Carlos Stadium aims to be one of the finest in Cebu. It may host international football teams.