Mark Messersmith Outdoor Track & Field Complex Renovation

Overview

  • The outdoor track and the supporting subsurface located at the Mark Messersmith Outdoor Track and Field Complex must be replaced due to multiple areas failing in quality and reliability.
  • The current track is no longer fit for NCAA Division I athletic competitions.
  • A new track will allow UNI to host the Missouri Valley Conference Outdoor Track & Field Championships.
  • Additional upgrades to the facility include steeplechase pit replacement, improvements to the hammer throw area, and a new javelin throw area.
  • In addition to UNI Athletics, the track benefits thousands of users annually including UNI students, local businesses, private groups, and the general public.

Projected Costs: $1.41 million

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"An improved outdoor track facility will allow our student-athletes an opportunity to excel and maintain a high level of success in the Missouri Valley Conference and across the country."

UNI Head Cross Country/Track & Field Coach David Paulsen

Mark Messersmith Outdoor Track and Field Complex Background

  • The Mark Messersmith Outdoor Track and Field Complex is located northeast of the UNI-Dome.
  • The Complex originally opened in 1998.
  • The Complex features a 400 meter, eight lane track.
  • The Complex consists of the following event areas: long jump, triple jump, discus/hammer throw, javelin, shot put & pole vaulting.
  • Since the Complex opened, it has hosted four (4) Missouri Valley Conference (MVC) Outdoor Track & Field Championships.

Impact on Student-Athletes

  • A first class facility for training & competitions.
  • Renovation impacts over 100 student-athletes.
  • Opportunity to host more events including the MVC Outdoor Championships.
  • Maintain competitiveness in MVC and across the country.
  • Overall enhances the student-athlete experience.
  • Impact on recruiting.
Outdoor Track Replacement - Rendering 1

Results of the Renovation

Some enhancements to the Mark Messersmith Outdoor Track and Field Complex include:

  • Replacement of the track surface, not just a resurface of the track.
  • The javelin area being relocated to outside of the track event area. This includes a new runway.
  • Replacement of the steeplechase pit.
  • Updates to the long jump, triple jump, discus/hammer throw, javelin, shot put & pole vaulting areas.

Upon project completion, UNI will boast one of the finest indoor/outdoor track facilities in the entire MVC.

UNI will also become the only MVC member capable of hosting both the indoor and outdoor track championships.

Visuals