Lew Hartzog Track & Field / Soccer
Saluki Athletics broke ground on a new track and field facility on May 23, 2011 and the project was completed in May of 2012. Another piece of the Saluki Way initiative, the Lew Hartzog Track and Field Complex is a $3.96 million project located directly east of Abe Martin Field. The facility includes: • A regulation NCAA competition 400-meter track with a state-of-the art, full-depth polyurethane synthetic track surface system. • Accommodations for regulation NCAA competition field events, including bi-directional pole vault and long and triple jump surfaces. • Accommodations for regulation NCAA competition throwing events, including a dual shot put pad and hammer throw, discus and javelin areas. • A state-of-the-art, multi-event synthetic turf infield which can be set to accommodate an NCAA regulation soccer pitch or football field. • Spectator seating for 250, including seven ADA positions with future capacity for up to 500 additional spectators. • Pole-mounted track and field sports lighting. • A 4,500 square foot track and locker support building with future expansion capability. • A free-standing track building for event operations and viewing. On March 29, 2013, Saluki Athletics dedicated the facility in a ceremony emceed by Saluki Hall of Fame broadcaster Mike Reis that included remarks from SIU Director of Athletics Mario Moccia, SIU Chancellor Rita Cheng, current head coach Connie Price-Smith, former head coach and namesake Lew Hartzog, 1980 NCAA hurdles champion David Lee and current Saluki hurdler Tess Shubert. To christen the facility, Southern Illinois hosted the inaugural Bill Cornell Spring Classic over the next two days.