OREM – Utah Valley University celebrated a historic moment on Friday afternoon, officially cutting the ribbon on UCCU Stadium—a $30 million, fully-fundraised, soccer-specific facility now regarded as one of the finest collegiate soccer venues in the country.

The ceremony drew university leaders, community members, donors, student-athletes, and fans to the west side of Clyde Field, where the new stadium stands as a symbol of growth, ambition, and belief realized.

"This truly is a historic day for UVU, the community, our students, our student-athletes, and our fans," said UVU Director of Athletics Jared Sumsion. "Today, we are cutting the ribbon on one of the finest soccer stadiums in the entire country."

Sumsion reflected on the journey from Clyde Field's modest beginnings—chain-link fences, limited bleacher seating, and tight budgets—to the vision and persistence that made UCCU Stadium possible. "We didn't have enough seats. We didn't have any money. But we knew we had something special," he said. "Fifteen years ago, this was just belief and Wolverine grit. Today, it's a reality."

The project was made possible thanks to a $28.5 million gift from Utah Community Credit Union (UCCU), the largest single donation in UVU history. Sumsion praised UCCU's commitment to the university, recognizing leaders including Justin Olsen, Brad Norton, Richard Hirst, Jordan Perry, and the UCCU Board.

Designed by Method Studio and built by SIRQ Construction in an accelerated 16-month timeline, UCCU Stadium was created with both fans and players in mind. Features include shaded seating, eight luxury suites, shaded plazas, a student party deck, a massive video board, Premier League-level locker rooms, a Hall of Champions, the Wolverine Den team shop, and a press box and broadcast booth that rivals many MLS venues.

"When you walk through it, it feels like a professional venue," Sumsion said. "We have shaded seating, luxury amenities, heaters on the concourse, and locker rooms and team spaces that are as nice as anything you'll find in the pros."

UVU men's head coach Kyle Beckerman said the stadium "marks a new chapter" for the program, while women's head coach Chris Lemay called it "a statement to our players, the university, and the community about the investment Utah Valley is making in soccer."

The debut match at UCCU Stadium will be Monday, Aug. 18, when UVU women's soccer hosts in-state rival Utah in the program's most anticipated home opener. The venue is also set to host major events, including the 2025 WAC Women's Soccer Championship and future Big West Conference championships.

"This isn't just about opening a facility—it's about opening a new chapter," Sumsion said. "One filled with unforgettable matches, roaring crowds, and moments that will define what it means to be a Wolverine. Let's make UCCU Stadium a place where champions are made."