Howard had used Gaston Stadium since the 1950s, but the Hustlin’ Tigers will debut a new facility at Reggie White Field, pictured, when the Hustlin’ Tigers kick off their football season Friday night against Nashville’s Stratford.Howard’s varsity football opener for 2019 is also the grand opening for the school’s new stadium.
The Hustlin’ Tigers had used Gaston Stadium since the 1950s, but the final touches have been added to a 2,500-seat facility on the back side of campus that also will be used for soccer and includes a top-tier track that encircles Reggie White Field.
“When we walk out there for the game, that will be our first time on the field,” said Howard senior Devontay Smith, whose team takes on Nashville’s Stratford in a nonregion matchup Friday night at 7:30. “I drove around it a few times just to see the progress they were making, and I know we’re all real excited to get out there on it. It’s a blessing to get to step out on the field with my teammates.
“I know there are a lot of memories made on that old field and a lot of great players that played there and it will always be special, but we want to come out and set the tone on this new field and represent the school in a positive way all season.”
To the right side of the home bleachers, which seat up to 1,500, will be a concession stand and a fieldhouse with a training facility, meeting rooms and showers.