Jax State reveals plans for new $23M indoor football facility [PHOTOS]
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It has been less than two years since Jax State opened the doors on a new $32 million football complex at AmFirst Stadium. And the Gamecocks have already turned their eyes to another big project for the program’s future.
On Tuesday, the Jacksonville State University Board of Trustees voted to approve the naming of a new $23 million indoor practice facility for the program + released first renderings of the project.
The building costs will be partially covered by a $10 million gift, the largest in university history, made by Ken and Jenny Howell who the university will recognize with the naming of the new project.
“Ken and Jenny Howell represent the very best of the Jacksonville State family. Their generosity comes from a deep love for this institution and for the students who call it home. While this will be called a football facility, its impact will reach far beyond one program—serving other groups across campus and creating opportunities that will enhance the student experience in meaningful ways.”
Dr. Don C. Killingsworth, Jr., JSU President
Ken and Jenny Howell Football Indoor Practice Facility
The Ken and Jenny Howell Football Indoor Practice Facility will include:
- 84,282-square-foot indoor practice facility
- 120-yard synthetic turf practice field
- Goal posts
- Catch netting
- Dedicated viewing platform
- Climate controlled
- 11,424-square-foot football performance center
- Weight room
- Cardio training space
The exterior design will include brick veneer and metal exterior panels, aluminum storefront glazing units, and translucent panels that allow for natural, diffused light throughout the interior space. Inside, the building will utilize CMU construction and acoustical metal wall panels. The project also includes additional vehicular parking to the east of the facility, along with RV parking along the west and south sides.
“This facility will make an immediate difference for our football program. Having an indoor practice space allows us to train consistently, develop our players more effectively, and prepare the right way regardless of the weather. More importantly, it shows our student-athletes that they are supported and believed in. We are incredibly thankful to Ken and Jenny Howell for what this means to our team and to Jax State Football.”
Charles Kelley, Jax State head coach
Ken and Jenny Howell
Ken and Jenny Howell’s support of Jacksonville State spans decades and reflects a deep commitment to student success, academic excellence and campus life.
Ken was named Alumnus of the Year in 2014 and is a member of the University’s Lifetime Leaders Society. The Howells’ philanthropic impact is visible across campus through previous naming gifts, including the Ken and Jenny Howell Dance Studio and Rehearsal Hall at the Randy Owen Center for Performing Arts and the Kenneth and Jenny Howell Auditorium in Merrill Hall, home to Jax State’s College of Business and Industry.
“Jacksonville State has meant a great deal to Jenny and me for a long time. We love this University and all of its students who make it such a special place, and we’re proud of the young people who represent Jax State as Gamecocks. It means a great deal to us to support something that will serve the University for years to come.”
Ken Howell
There is currently no timeline for the completion of the project as the university continues fundraising efforts. Jax State will soon release more ways for fans and alumni to donate and support the project.
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