MACOMB, Ill. - Fans of Western Illinois Athletics may notice a new fixture in the North endzone of Hanson Field, a newly-designed, high-definition video board with an amplified sound system and reconfigured scoreboard.

The project, which features a 14.6 by a 31.5-foot video display, was manufactured by NEVCO and fundraised through the contributions and support of the Leatherneck Club and the University's foundation office. 

"The new video board, scoreboard, and sound system have been in the works for over a year now," explained WIU Director of Athletics Danielle Surprenant. "It was much needed, as transporting the previous boards from one facility to another was no longer conducive. When we started looking at a new video board, we wanted to make sure we also addressed the need for a new sound system. We are pleased with how the project turned out and look forward to showcasing it this weekend. 

"This project wouldn't have been possible without the contributions of many. A special thank you to Brad Bainter, Executive Officer of the WIU Foundation, and the foundation office for their financial support. I would also like to thank Ted Renner, the project manager, for coordinating all the logistics, as well as Quintin Parker, Director of WIU Sports Broadcasting, Westec, and Utech, for all their assistance throughout the planning and installation process."

Outside of operating as the main feature at Leatherneck football gamedays, the video board will also serve track and field events and other campus activities that may take place within Hanson Field.

Fans will receive their first glimpse of the new board this Saturday (Oct. 30), when the University's football program takes on Illinois State at 3 p.m.