Rob Higgins, CEO of University of South Florida Athletics, provided an update on May 21 regarding the progress of the university’s new on-campus stadium and football operations center. Speaking to local media at the construction site, Higgins described the ongoing work as a significant milestone for USF.
Higgins said that having a dedicated home is important for the university community. “Usually, when you’re in interviews like this, you don’t want any background noise, but we welcome all of the background noise, the sights and sounds of this incredible project,” Higgins said over construction activity. “To finally have a home of our own is really special.”
The first event at the new 35,000-seat stadium is scheduled for September 4, 2027. According to Higgins, construction remains on schedule with daily shifts running from early morning until sunset. On one recent day alone, about 40 workers began pouring concrete before dawn while total site staff reached around 250 later that morning.
Higgins highlighted student involvement in the project. One beam destined for the student section was signed by more than 5,000 students over three days. “Here at USF, it all starts with the students,” he said.
Additional features include an East Field Club where fans can interact with players as they take the field and a Sideline Club accommodating about 1,000 fans. The South Tower will feature what is described as Florida’s longest rooftop bar offering views across campus and beyond.
The complex also houses a new Tampa General Hospital Center for Athletic Excellence featuring facilities such as a weight room and sports medicine clinic designed to support student-athletes’ success.
“We couldn’t be more fired up to have this home that we’ve waited on our entire lives,” Higgins said. “It’s helping to change the narrative and sentiment around this community in a big way.”
University of South Florida Athletics has produced Olympians representing multiple countries; earned national championships; participates in updated venues for several sports; promotes inclusion and equity; competes in conference championships; and is part of both University of South Florida and American Athletic Conference participation according to the official website.
