Sand Creek Stadium Ground Breaking

‘Colorado Springs, CO – The Switchbacks FC and the City of Colorado Springs broke ground at Sand Creek Stadium today commemorating the second time that the pitch hosted such a ceremony.  In 1985, the US Soccer Federation, the US Olympic Committee, and the City of Colorado Springs broke ground at the same site to celebrate the building of a facility that was intended to host US National matches and the first field of a larger sports complex master plan.  Almost 30 years later, the facility is finally on its way towards completion.   Colorado Springs City Council approved an agreement with the Switchbacks on June 14th that gave the new USL Pro franchise a ten year lease on the site.  The team, lead by Owner Ed Ragain, wasted no time in moving forward with stadium improvement plans designed by Populous architects and have already begun moving earth at the site.   “Colorado Springs has a world class sports industry and it is fitting that professional soccer is finally coming to Sand Creek Stadium” said Mayor Steve Bach as he addressed the crowd.  Owner Ed Ragain, Park Operations and Development Manger Kurt Schroeder, and Kevin O’Grady of Populous architects also addressed the crowd providing the history and the vision for the Stadium.  Eight foot tall banners displaying the design team (Populous, ME Engineers) construction team (Bryan Construction, Southern Bleacher), and title sponsors (Penrose-St. Francis Health Services & Nike) set the main backdrop for the ceremony.   Upon completion, Sand Creek Stadium will have a seating capacity of 3500, a press box, enhanced sports lighting, suite seating, broad cement concourses, restroom / locker room / and administrative facilities, eight points of sale for concessions and public wifi.   The Switchbacks Football Club continues to make large strides on its path to the USL Pro in 2015.  Still to come from the team: a fall exhibition announcement, jersey presentation, mascot introduction, tryouts, and player signings.