HICKORY, N.C. — Caution tape and warning signs are up at Moretz Stadium at Lenoir-Rhyne University to keep anyone from going into the stands that were often sold out last football season.
The university learned there were problems with the stands at the end of last season forcing them to make major changes with the season just two months away.
“Structurally, the stadium is very old and as our people always do, they get out in front of things very quickly,” head coach Drew Cronic said.
A study identified issues of structural integrity on the home-side seating, and it recommended that the university demolish the seating area.
[Lenoir-Rhyne student using meal card credit to feed homeless]
The university couldn’t pinpoint the cause beyond the age of the stadium.
Fans and students support the university's quick decision.
“I just hate that they’re going to have to do that, but everything they’ve done over here the last few years has been wonderful,” fan Lauren Westmoreland said.
The university said once the demolition is completed, temporary stands will be set up for the upcoming season with a permanent fix happening next year.
“If you haven’t been to a game here, you need to come to one,” Cronic said. “It’s awesome. Tailgaters everywhere. Saturdays around here are pretty cool and we expect to see you there.”
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