MAGNOLIA, Ark. - Mulerider Athletics is pleased to announce a three-phase facilities enhancement project for the Mulerider Football Program that is set to begin later this month. The announcement comes after private funds were raised for Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the project, both of which will provide an immediate impact on the football program.
 
Phase 1, which is set to begin this month, will focus on revitalizing Wilkins Stadium with a newer, more modern appearance. The project will include a complete exterior overhaul featuring new metal, brick, and signage.
 
Phase 2, set to begin in early summer, will include the removal of the existing artificial turf and the installation of Pivot Performance Turf. Pivot Turf is designed to deliver grass-like athlete performance without performance infill, providing consistent traction and controlled release that support speed, acceleration, cutting, and confident movement under repeated load in all weather conditions. With the addition of Pivot Turf inside Wilkins Stadium, Southern Arkansas is set to become one of the first universities in the nation with the new technology. 
 
Phase 3 will be announced at a later date as final details are still being worked through.
 
"These enhancements are going to be incredible for our football program and for our fans, donors, and all those who support Mulerider Football," said SAU Director of Athletics Steve Browning. "We have been blessed to be able to provide our student-athletes and fans with some of the best facilities around, and there is no doubt these enhancements will build on what we have already accomplished. I cannot say 'thank you' enough to those who have helped get us to where we are today."
 
The general contractor hired to complete the work is GeoSurfaces, a Tencate Company. GeoSurfaces specializes in turn-key sports facility solutions and have previously completed the renovations to Walker Stadium at Goodheart Field, Dawson Field at the Dr. Margaret Downing Softball Complex, the Dawson Athletic Complex, and the Mulerider Track and Field Complex.
 
To date, the University has raised the necessary funds through gifts and pledges. The enhancements will be funded entirely through private support from alumni and friends. Donors to the project will be recognized, including through select facility naming rights, once all phases are complete.
 
For more information on how you can be a part of this project, please contact Jackson McCurdy, Executive Director of Development, at jcmccurdy@saumag.edu.