Hampton University is tearing up its old turf and track at Armstrong Stadium this summer, part of a $3.2 million renovation aimed at overhauling the facility for football, soccer, and track before the 2026 season kicks off. The project is already underway, led by NPSG Built, LLC and Advanced Sports Group — the same folks who’ve worked on projects for the Las Vegas Raiders and Georgia Tech. Civil engineering firm ForSite, PLLC is handling lead engineering.
The stadium, which dates back to 1922 and seats nearly 10,000, has been home to Pirates football for decades. But the current AstroTurf surface, installed in 2014, was past its prime. So the school is swapping it out for Shaw Sports Turf’s Legion 2.0 hybrid synthetic field, which is supposed to be more durable and safer for players. That upgrade opens the door for women’s soccer and lacrosse to play there regularly — something that hasn’t been easy lately.
Women’s soccer finally gets a home
The women’s soccer program has been playing home matches off campus for a while now because the old setup couldn’t handle it. Head coach Sam Cain said the new field changes everything. “Being able to play on campus in a first-class facility strengthens our identity and gives us a true home-field advantage,” Cain said. That’s a big deal for a program that’s been bouncing around.
The eight-lane track is getting a total redo too. The new Beynon BSS 1000 system is designed for better shock absorption and energy return, which should make a difference for runners. Maurice Pierce, Hampton’s director of cross country and track and field, sees bigger possibilities. “It allows our teams the opportunity to compete at home and positions us to host youth, high school, and collegiate championship meets,” he said.
Coach Malone calls it a ‘game-changer’
Football coach Van Malone didn’t mince words. “This upgrade is a game-changer for our program,” he said. “Having a high-performance surface enhances player safety, supports the speed and physicality of our game, and creates a championship-level environment for our student-athletes.” The field will support football, women’s soccer, and lacrosse, giving the stadium multi-sport flexibility it didn’t really have before.
Anthony D. Henderson, the athletics director, framed the project as a long-term bet on the program’s future. “We are committed to providing a premier environment for all of our student-athletes to train, compete, and succeed,” he said. The renovation should be wrapped up before the 2026 fall season starts. No word yet on any ribbon-cutting ceremonies or fan events, but the Pirates are betting the new digs will help recruiting and overall competitiveness in the MEAC.
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