Millikin has a proud tradition of academic excellence and a storied history in athletic endeavors. To continue building on this history, improvements and additions must be made to athletic facilities for the university’s oldest and youngest sport programs: football and soccer.
Frank M. Lindsay Field Upgrade
In 1904, Millikin defeated Illinois Wesleyan 34-0 in its first-ever football game, establishing the sport as a cornerstone for Big Blue athletics. Through the years, the elements required to maintain a successful program have changed, including the playing field.
The last major upgrade to the football field was completed more than 20 years ago. Currently, the field has a natural grass surface with incomplete drainage, which limits usage primarily to game day to avoid the risk of damage. The installation of a new synthetic turf will allow games and practices to be held on the same resilient field.
New South Fields Athletic Center
Millikin’s soccer program, still relatively young, continues to field competitive men’s and women’s teams. During its first 15 years, games and practices were held at various off-campus locations. The current soccer complex, located in the southwest corner of the campus, began hosting games in 2003. Renovations to the field were made in 2006, but there is a need for an on-site support facility dedicated to this rising program.
The addition of a South Fields Athletic Center directly adjacent to the playing field will give athletes space for pre- and post-game activities and provide a concession facility to serve student and community spectators.
Lighting for Football and Soccer Fields
The addition of lights will expand the field’s use beyond the limitations of daylight, providing greater flexibility in scheduling games and practices.
Planned Improvements at a Glance
• Synthetic turf for Frank M. Lindsay Field
• A new South Fields Athletic Center that includes:
- Locker rooms
- Athletic training room and office
- Concession stand
- Public restrooms
• Lighting for both football and soccer fields
These improvements will help attract skilled players to the Big Blue’s talented rosters and continue building a winning tradition at Millikin.