NAIA Football Host Committee Announces Progress of Stadium Upgrades

May 22, 2008 - The Executive Committee for the 2008/2009 NAIA National Football Championship Games announced today that progress is continuing on the renovation and improvements of Barron Stadium. The visitor side stands received a fresh coat of paint this week, with the home grandstand receiving work over the next few days. The painting of the whole facility should be completed next week, including the concession and restroom areas. The natural Bermuda turf that was planted several weeks ago has already begun to take root and adds to the stadium’s visual makeover. Additionally, the press box is currently being renovated to include increased media seating, and expanded radio and television space.

“We are excited and appreciative of the work being done at Barron Stadium,” said Executive Committee co-chair Bob Berry. “Without a doubt, Richard Garland and Todd Wofford of Rome Floyd Parks and Recreation (RFPRA) have done a great job in making these changes happen. When complete, we think Barron will have a unique retro look, going back to the appearance and feel of stadiums in the 1920s and 1930s. It reminds us of the way professional baseball has redone some of their parks, like Camden Yard.”

According to Shorter College Athletic Director and Executive Committee co-chair Bill Peterson, it is anticipated that the entire renovation will be complete by the time the NAIA makes it official site visit in July.

The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics’ 2008 and 2009 National Championship games were awarded to Shorter College and Rome-Floyd County earlier this year. The 2008 title game will be played at Barron Stadium in Rome on Dec. 20.

For additional information, visit www.naianationalchampionship.com.