The University of Northern Colorado is set to begin installing lights at Nottingham Field next month, a move that will transform the stadium into a night‑time venue for the Bears football team and a broader range of community events.
A Private Investment in Nighttime Football
The $1.6 million project was funded entirely through the UNC Foundation, with contributions coming from anonymous donors who have chosen to keep their identities private. This financial backing allows the university to upgrade the field without tapping into public budgets.
Beyond the obvious benefit to the football program, the new lighting system opens up scheduling flexibility that could attract television partners and create additional revenue streams. Night games are known to draw larger audiences, and the university hopes to leverage that interest for future broadcasts.
Community Ripple Effects
The upgraded field will also serve as a venue for high school football games, track meets and even nontraditional events such as weddings. Greeley West High School traditionally uses Nottingham Field for its daytime commencement ceremony on Memorial Day weekend, and this year Greeley Central will hold its graduation there as well.
Players are already excited about the prospect of night games. Offensive lineman Levi Johnson said the cooler temperatures at kickoff make the experience more comfortable, while safety Franky Morales noted that the reduced heat will benefit both fans and athletes alike.
Looking Ahead
The first illuminated game is slated for Saturday, August 29, 2026, when the Bears host Weber State. If the project proceeds as planned, the lights could become a permanent feature, reshaping how the university engages with athletes, local schools and the wider community.