Fifth Third Stadium, located on the campus of Kennesaw State University in Kennesaw, Georgia, is a modern and versatile sports and entertainment venue. It is the centerpiece of the KSU Sports + Entertainment Park and is primarily known as the home of the Kennesaw State Owls football, women's soccer, and women's lacrosse teams. Its relatively young age and multi-purpose design set it apart from many other stadiums in the state.
History: A Stadium for a New Era
The stadium's history is tied to the expansion of Kennesaw State University and its athletics program. It was built as a soccer-specific stadium, opening on May 2, 2010, under the name KSU Soccer Stadium. It was the result of a public-private partnership, with the now-defunct Women's Professional Soccer team, the Atlanta Beat, serving as the facility's first major tenant.
A pivotal moment for the stadium came in 2013 when the university announced the launch of its football program. To prepare for the new team, the facility was renamed Fifth Third Bank Stadium on February 14, 2013, following a major sponsorship agreement. The first home football game was played in 2015, marking the official beginning of a new era for KSU athletics. The stadium's success as a football venue has been a major factor in the program's rapid ascent.
In 2023, the stadium's name was updated to Fifth Third Stadium. It has hosted a variety of events beyond college sports, including professional soccer and lacrosse, as well as concerts and festivals. This versatility has made it a valuable asset to the university and the broader community.
Current Information
As of the 2024-2025 season, Fifth Third Stadium has a seating capacity of 10,200. The playing surface is a modern PlayMaster hybrid turf. The stadium is designed with a bowl shape, with all seating below the entry level, which creates a very intimate and engaging atmosphere for fans.
In 2025, the playing field was officially named Walens Family Field at Fifth Third Stadium, recognizing a significant donation from Dave and Donna Walens. This new name honors their contributions to the university and its student-athletes.
The stadium is a key component of the KSU Sports + Entertainment Park, which also includes other athletic facilities and a walking trail. Its location near major interstate highways (I-75 and I-575) makes it easily accessible for fans. As Kennesaw State makes its transition to the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) and the Conference USA conference, Fifth Third Stadium is poised to host an even higher level of competition and attract a growing number of fans. The stadium's modern amenities and strategic design are well-suited for the program's continued growth and success.