The University of South Florida’s plan to build an on-campus football stadium received a significant vote of confidence with the announcement of a $5 million gift from Jeff and Penny Vinik.
The Viniks have been strong supporters of USF for many years and were instrumental in USF Health’s expansion in Water Street Tampa. The Vinik Sport and Entertainment Management Program (SEM) in the Muma College of Business prepares students for careers in the industry, creating a talent pipeline for sports and entertainment venues in Florida and beyond. In 2021, SportBusiness named the Vinik SEM Program No. 3 in the world.
“We are delighted that Jeff and Penny Vinik share our excitement for an on-campus stadium and see the positive impact the project will have on the University of South Florida and surrounding communities,” USF President Rhea Law said. “Their vision and investment have helped transform downtown Tampa, the Tampa Bay Lightning organization and our entire region, including numerous programs at USF. We thank Jeff and Penny for their continued support of the university.”
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USF leaders decided that the Sycamore Fields site on the east side of the Tampa campus had been selected as the stadium site. The location is currently used for intramural sports. It is within the USF Athletics district and sits near its operations facility and new Indoor Performance Facility. There are multiple options for tailgating space. The site provides an opportunity to enhance the campus experience to create a deeper sense of community and connection to the university.
When the stadium site selection was announced, longtime USF supporters Carol and Frank Morsani committed $5 million to the project in the hope that others would follow. The Viniks are the first to answer that call. USF Foundation CEO Jay Stroman and Vice President of Athletics Michael Kelly serve as the stadium planning committee co-chairs. In their last update, they said that the stadium project schedule includes options for completion in 2026 or 2027.