Mansfield’s Van Norman Field and Maxson Track Stadium Complex Set for Game-Changing $4 Million Renovation

MANSFIELD, Pa. – Commonwealth University – Mansfield’s Karl Van Norman Field and Maxson Track stadium complex, the heart of Mountaineer Athletics, will undergo a transformative $4 million renovation. The project will modernize the stadium, elevate the student experience, and enhance a vital campus and community gathering space.

The project includes new artificial turf at Van Norman Field, a resurfaced Maxson Track, and upgraded stadium seating. Construction is scheduled to begin in spring 2026, with completion in time for the fall 2026 athletic season. Additional enhancements are possible via donor support through the Mansfield University Mountaineer Foundation.

“Karl Van Norman Field has long been a cornerstone of the Mansfield campus and community, bringing people together through athletics, celebrations, and shared experiences,” said Bashar W. Hanna, president of Commonwealth University. “This renovation is a strategic investment in our students, university and community. Along with generous support from donors, we are ensuring that this beloved facility continues to inspire Mountie pride and excellence for generations to come.”

The current seating dates to the stadium’s original construction in 1964, when it became the home of Mountaineer football. An expanded eight-lane track was installed in 2012, followed by the artificial turf surface a year later.

Aligning turf replacement, track resurfacing, and seating upgrades within a single project window ensures a cost-efficient process and minimizes disruptions to campus and community events.  

“This renovation is about providing Mountaineer student-athletes with a modern facility, while giving coaches a powerful tool in recruiting talent,” said Dr. Gretchen Sechrist, Mansfield campus administrator and interim vice provost and dean of undergraduate education. “We are excited to see this project come to life and the lasting impact it will have on our teams and community.”

“It is such an exciting time for Mansfield Athletics,” said Peggy Carl, Mansfield director of athletics. “This multi-million-dollar project will be a benefit to every Mountaineer student-athlete and shows the university’s commitment to the success of Mansfield athletics. The chance to showcase the Mansfield campus to our community partners will result in enhanced opportunities for recruitment, a level of student-athlete satisfaction that is unparalleled and provides us a path to an enhanced fan experience.

“We could not be more thrilled for this project and are grateful for the support of so many who will make it a reality,” she added.

A Central Hub for Athletics and the Community

The stadium is home to Mountaineer sprint football, field hockey, and track and field, as well as an alternate venue for women’s soccer. The facility also serves as a training and conditioning space for all Mansfield athletic programs and hosts the university’s annual spring commencement ceremonies.

Beyond campus, the facility plays a key role in regional athletics and community events, hosting the Tioga County Special Olympics, concerts, high school football games, track and field invitationals, and more.

A Strategic Investment in the Future

This renovation underscores Mansfield’s commitment to providing top-tier athletic facilities that not only support current student-athletes but also enhance recruitment efforts. A modernized facility strengthens Mansfield’s appeal to prospective athletes, reinforcing the university’s reputation for excellence in both academics and athletics.

As the stadium evolves, so does its impact - continuing to serve as a stage for unforgettable moments, athletic achievements and lifelong memories for students, alumni and the broader community.

Enhancing the Impact

Further enhancements to the stadium project are possible through the support of individual and corporate donors. With additional donor support, a new press box, state-of-the-art scoreboard, and upgraded team facilities can be included in the scope of the project.

Anyone interested in making these additional enhancements a reality should contact Kate Billmeyer, senior director of philanthropy at the Mansfield University Mountaineer Foundation, at (570) 204-2052 or kbillmeyer@cu-mansfield.org for more information.

More information about the stadium renovation is available at GoMounties.com/Stadium.