NFL - SB 2009
Super Bowl Info
NFL Odds
Super Bowl XLIII Stadium
History
In the very first regular season home game ever played at Raymond James Stadium (September 20, 1998), the Bucs won a dramatic victory against the Chicago Bears with a 27-point rally to defeat the Bears 27 to 15.
The same company that produces props for Walt Disney World created the mighty pirate ship that is permanently harbored in Buccaneer Cove. The pirate ship comes to life after the Buccaneers score a field goal or touchdown. Its loud cannons fire seven times to signal a touchdown and three to announce a field goal.
The pirate ship is an authentic replica of an early 1800s pirate ship, arguably one of the most recognizable stadium features in the world. It is 103 feet long with huge 32x50 foot sails.
Stadium Location
The site is located between Loop 101 and 91st Avenue, and Maryland and Bethany Home roads.
The stadium and on-site parking lots occupies approximately 180 acres.
Parking for 14,000 cars is accommodated on-site. Offsite parking for an additional 6,000 cars is available within walking distance at the Coyotes Arena. There also are another 6,000 parking spaces within one mile of the site.
Design Elements
Although roll-out natural grass playing fields have been used successfully in venues across Europe and Asia, Glendale's combination retractable roof and roll-out field will be the first of its kind in North America. In addition, the University of Phoenix Stadium is aligned along a slight northwest to southeast axis to offer the maximum sun exposure for the grass field and maximum shade for stadium patrons.
Retractable Roof
The University of Phoenix Stadium has two large panels that retract to uncover the entire playing field and has been designed to provide the right balance of sun on the field and shade in the seats. An open roof will allow fans to take advantage of Arizona's world famous climate and clear blue skies, but when closed will allow the building to host large conventions, trade shows, concerts, as well as other indoor events .
Roll Out Field
The University of Phoenix Stadium natural grass field will roll out of the facility where it will reside most of the year and get its nourishment, maintenance, and grooming. The field tray will be 234 feet wide by 400 feet long, and take approximately 45 minutes to move into/out of University of Phoenix Stadium. The 152,000 square-foot concrete stadium floor will have a utility grid embedded in it so as to easily accommodate various events .
Seating Options
University of Phoenix Stadium has over 63,000 permanent seats and capacity can be expanded to 73,000 for events such as the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl and future Super Bowls. Seating options include:
Total of 88 luxury suites on two levels (seating for approx. 1,500 patrons)
- Club seating for 7,000 with access to private club lounge areas
- Lower bowl seating to accommodate 29,000 patrons
- Upper deck seating for approximately 26,000 patrons
- ALL SEATS will be individual chairs with arm rests and cup holders
Improved Amenities - for the comfort of patrons:
- All spaces will be air conditioned
- Increases in the number of concession points and toilets per person
- Large concourses and escalators will efficiently move patrons through the facility
Architecture
The exterior design of University of Phoenix Stadium, provided by renowned architect Peter Eisenman, along with HOK Sport, is very unique and will be a signature facility for Arizona. The basic form of the design of University of Phoenix Stadium takes its cue from barrel cactus and offers alternating vertical slots with smooth panels. In addition, light can penetrate the fabric roof allowing the stadium to have an open, airy feel even when the roof is closed.
Interesting Facts
Did you know that members of the NFL Players Association have consistently rated Raymond James Stadium’s field as the best in the league? And league insiders refer to the stadium as the “crown jewel” of the NFL?. Raymond James Stadium hosted Super Bowl XXXV on January 28, 2001, in which the Baltimore Ravens defeated the New York Giants 34 to 7, and will host Super Bowl XLIII on February 1, 2009.
2009 Super Bowl News
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San Diego, CA (Sports Network) - The San Diego Chargers announced the signing of free agent cornerback Donald Strickland to a two-year contract on... Full Story...
