DES MOINES, IOWA - The Grand View University Athletics Department and the Grand View Football Program are excited to announce that Mediacom Stadium, which opened in October 2023, will host the Vikings' 2024 NAIA Football Championship Series second-round match-up. As one of the top seeds, the Vikings earned a first-round bye and will take the field on Saturday, November 30^th at Noon. This announcement, made today, November 20th, builds excitement as the 2nd-seeded Vikings prepare for their postseason debut.

For the first time in program history, Grand View University will host an NAIA FCS playoff game at Mediacom Stadium, making a move from their regular-season home, Duke Williams Stadium. This historic shift comes after 13 playoff-qualifying seasons, nine of which featured home games at Duke Williams Stadium. Mediacom Stadium now becomes the new stage for the Vikings' 2024 postseason stint in their home city.

The $24 million stadium broke ground in the spring of 2021 and was officially completed in the fall of 2023. The facility is a major part of a multi-million-dollar, district-wide initiative to upgrade athletics facilities at DMPS high schools.  RDG's design for this shared-use synthetic turf stadium transforms 4.5 acres of Drake-donated land into a 4,000-seat community stadium venue and provides needed space for DMPS and NCAA DI Drake teams.

A natural slope of the site provided an opportunity to locate the field in a natural bowl, with spectators entering from the south at an elevation approximately 15' above field level for easy ADA access and great views.  Athletes and staff access the stadium at field level on the site's north side. Likewise, RDG's design incorporates hydraulically hinged football goalposts that can be rotated 180 degrees or taken down completely to accommodate soccer matches and tournaments, or other large events.  

The decision to move our NAIA FCS playoff games to Mediacom Stadium reflects our commitment to meeting hosting requirements and providing an enhanced experience for players, fans, and media. Mediacom Stadium offers superior amenities, including expanded press box space, upgraded facilities, and improved accommodations, ensuring a professional environment that matches the significance of postseason play. This move also allows us to showcase our program on a stage that aligns with the high standards of playoff competition.

Mediacom Stadium has already hosted major events including the 2023 MVC Women's Soccer Championship semifinals and final, and hosted the Iowa Boys State Soccer Tournament, as well as High School football playoffs.
More details about the second-round matchup and a visitor guide (tickets will also go on sale Sunday November 24th) will be released on Sunday, November 24th. Stay tuned for updates!
 
WORDS WITH WOODLEY
"We are excited to bring playoff college football to Mediacom Stadium. I look forward to our community continuing the tremendous support and taking advantage of the opportunity to experience a high level football game in a great atmosphere."