The University of Cincinnati’s football program is set to begin its first preseason training camp in 27 years at the newly completed Sheakley Indoor Performance Facility, a $134 million complex that promises a competitive edge over traditional off‑site sites.
By staying on campus, the Bearcats avoid the $250,000 expense associated with traveling to Indiana’s Camp Higher Ground, while taking advantage of amenities such as cryo chambers, a modern weight room and a dedicated pancake‑breakfast venue for fans.
An open practice scheduled for Saturday, August 8, will invite the public to watch the offensive line in action, featuring All‑American Evan Tengesdahl alongside preseason All‑Big 12 selections Joe Cotton and Taran Tyo, who started every game last season.
Chasing a championship
Athletic director John Cunningham explained that the decision to remain on campus was driven by the facility’s superior design and the tangible savings it delivers, positioning the team to contend for a Big 12 title after a season that saw the Bearcats win seven games.
The camp will run for roughly four weeks, culminating in a preseason matchup against Boston College on September 5, a game that will serve as the final test before the regular season begins.
Interest in the Sheakley Facility has already spread beyond Cincinnati, with Vanderbilt’s staff touring the premises to evaluate its potential for future collaborations.