DU's new Barton Lacrosse Stadium is the first collegiate stadium in the nation dedicated solely to lacrosse. Photo: Matt Suby
The Barton Lacrosse Stadium — which sits just west of the Ritchie Center — is the new home of the Pioneers men’s and women’s lacrosse programs and is the first collegiate stadium in the nation to be designed solely for lacrosse.
Lacrosse is the fastest growing sport in Colorado, and the stadium is expected to boost DU’s appeal to prospective student athletes, host high school tournaments and encourage youth lacrosse in the state.
The stadium opened in time for the 2005 season in February and was formally dedicated on April 30. The 2,000-seat stadium features stone walls with pre-cast concrete bench seating, locker rooms for men and women, public restrooms, a concession area, viewing pavilion, conference room and a two-direction press box that also serves the soccer field to the south. It also includes elevated perches for television cameras, which will help expand broadcasting opportunities.
Barton Stadium is named for the late Peter Barton, who was the former president and chief executive of cable television company Liberty Media Corp. Laura Barton, Peter Barton’s widow, donated the lead gift for the $6.32 million stadium complex. Other prominent donors are John and Anna Sie, and Myra Levy, whose family used to sell concessions at DU football games.
Although construction is complete, the playing field’s new artificial turf won’t be installed until this summer, weather permitting.