Gallery: (5-10-2022) Watson and Tressel Training Site
The Watson and Tressel Training Site (WATTS) is an on-campus facility that offers Youngstown State athletics one of the best indoor complexes in the entire FCS, Horizon League and Mid-American Conference.
The concept was originally announced in the summer of 2007 when the Tressel and Watson Families presented the University with a $1 million donation. Through hard work by many, the facility opened for use in the fall of 2011.
This indoor facility is vital to the future success of the YSU athletic department. The WATTS provides the most critical ingredient to meet the challenges presented by the opportunity of playing nationally-recognized competition.
Located to the east of Stambaugh Stadium, the WATTS features a full-length FieldTurf XT-57 football field, a 300-meter state-of-the-art mondo track surface, two long-jump pits, a high-jump pit, four batting cages, two golf simulators, protective netting, a training room and locker rooms.
The seasonal accommodates athletic team practices, intramural sports, campus-wide activities and special events benefiting students, faculty, staff and the community throughout the year.
Soccer, men’s and women’s track and field, baseball, golf, softball, football and lacrosse have the ability to practice in a safer, more comfortable environment. The facility also provides a significantly prolonged practice season to meet the challenge of the elevated level of competition YSU seeks to embrace.
In addition, the WATTS has served as a community resource - providing a large, climate-protected venue for local youth organizations and high schools. Area track and field teams utilize the facility for practices. During the winter months, the WATTS is open to the public in the evening.
The Horizon League Indoor Track and Field Championships were held in the facility each year from 2012 through 2020, and it is currently the host facility every other year.
In the spring of 2012, a lounge for the track and field program was created. Dressing rooms for the men’s and women’s golf teams are on the mezzanine next to a state-of-the-art putting surface.
This $14-million project was seen as a public/private partnership in that the construction costs would be sought through private philanthropy.
Event Parking
Public parking is available in the M-82 lot just west of the WATTS for $5. Approximately 15 handicap parking spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis in the M-82 lot near the main entrance. Team bus parking will be along the service road just north of Stambaugh Stadium.
