Following extensive in-season and post-season surveying of all ticket members, the athletics department has used fan feedback to affect change beginning with the following key areas in Cardinal Stadium: Wi-Fi connectivity, club space upgrades, expedited point of entry and concessions improvements.
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“These efforts are just the beginning. We know that the gameday experience must be evaluated through the eyes of our fans. Our fans’ input is invaluable, and it is imperative that we listen — even when it isn’t fun to hear — and turn that input into action. For me, it’s a non-negotiable that our commitment to evolve how we operate matches Card Nation’s commitment and devoted passion for our team,” said interim Director of Athletics Josh Heird.Ìý

Topping the list of concerns was adding increased wireless connectivity throughout Cardinal Stadium. The athletics department has invested over $5 million to install Wi-Fi access for fans to improve their game day wireless experience. UofL is working with AmpThink on this expansive installation that will allow fans to not only have use of the free Wi-Fi system, but also allow for more in-venue digital engagement opportunities during the game. Officials anticipate this project to be completed in time for the home opener on Sept. 16 versus Florida State.

With the generosity of a $4 million dollar gift from Angel’s Envy, the department has invested additional funding to fully renovate the former Brown & Williamson Club, located on the west side of the stadium. The expansive 18,000 square feet Angel’s Envy Bourbon Club will feature modern technology, unique gathering spaces and elevated furnishings and finishes that honor Louisville’s rich bourbon heritage. Elements that represent the Cardinals’ proud football history and Angel’s Envy distinct art deco identity will round out the club’s aesthetic.ÌýBeyond football game days, this one-of-a-kind space will again become available for community and corporate event rentals starting this fall.

To assist in expediting the gate entry process, new pedestal ticket scanners will be installed to improve entry at the three busiest gates at Cardinal Stadium — Gates 2, 3 and 4. Additionally, walk-thru security will be implemented, using stationary magnetic scanners, replacing the handheld/manual scanners from previous seasons.

In effort to improve concessions availability, Grab and Go Stations will be installed in key areas of the stadium concourses, making high-demand options more readily available to assist in reducing wait times. Additionally, a complimentary concession item for each game will be available during certain times of the game in all club spaces.

Season ticket memberships are available now for the 2022-23 season. UofL’s season ticket membership model aims to provide increased value and exclusive perks for members beyond the game ticket. Perks include access to member-only experiences and services. Visit gocards.com/fbstm for more information.

Thanks to a multi-year contribution commitment of construction and services valued at $850,000 from Buffalo Construction Inc., The Alley, will open Sept. 11, just in time for the home Cardinal Football home opener against Eastern Kentucky.ÌýÌý

Located on South Floyd Street directly across from the entrance into Cardinal Stadium, The Alley will provide a unique game day destination, including an expansive courtyard with the ability to accommodate thousands of fans, turf greens for yard games, live entertainment, drink options and food trucks.Ìý

“We are fans too,” said Vince Tyra, UofL’s director of Athletics. “We know that the game day experience goes far beyond the actual game. We want to help create destinations and foster more traditions for our fans. The Alley is just one more example. I’m so thankful to our friends at Buffalo Construction Inc. are as committed to our success as we are.”

Free and open to all fans, The Alley will open four hours prior to kickoff and will close approximately 30 minutes prior to the start of the game encouraging fans to be inside the stadium prior to kickoff. The facility will be open for one hour after the game as well.

Premium Memberships will also be available that will provide fans access to an indoor, climate-controlled space and features a catered meal and access to premium bar options.Ìý

The Alley is also the site of the former tailgating club, Cardinal Alley. Former Cardinal Alley Club members will be offered first access to purchase the VIP Membership pass, but additional fans can be added to the waiting list by contacting Sam Robey in the Cardinal Athletic Fund atÌýSamR@GoCards.com.

Additional improvements coming to Cardinal Stadium this season are as follows:

• Wifi:ÌýThe athletics department will begin a phased approach to enhance wifi capability to Cardinal Stadium to meet the long-awaited needs for cellular connectivity on game day.
• Honored jerseys:ÌýA new look to celebrate Honored Jerseys will be a significant improvement to Cardinal Stadium over the season. A 400-foot LED Board will be installed on the east side of the side stadium and will highlight UofL’s 23 honorees and its bowl appearances. The department plans to have it fully installed by the Oct. 9 game versus Virginia.Ìý
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