IOWA CITY (KWWL) -
The Iowa football team's new practice home is almost set to go. The finishing touches on the Hawkeye's $55 million upgrade are set to be completed August 21. The new 102,000 square foot facility replaces Iowa's old practice bubble which was demolished earlier in the spring.
Although the building won't be completed until late August, the team is expected to be able to begin practicing inside by August 3rd. The new facility features an already installed regulation football field, 3 camera platforms, as well as a ceiling that peaks at 65 feet.
"Anything would beat the bubble, that's definitely for sure," said junior defensive back Tanner Miller, "On some of these 95, 100 degree days it was a nightmare in there, and I think having this new facility's going to be pretty cool, not just for us, but as a recruiting tool."
"I think it's awesome. Looking at it right now, they are busting their butts out there putting it together," agreed senior receiver Keenan Davis, "It's been fun to see it put together, but it's just practice. You're going to be sweating in there like you sweat in the bubble. So, it's not that much different, but it's going to be fun."
Phase II of the project which will include an administration add-on, new offices, meeting rooms, and a weight room, is expected to be completed in 2014.
