Sanford Stadium, located in Athens, Georgia, is more than just a football venue; it is the storied and beloved home of the Georgia Bulldogs. Known for its raucous atmosphere and iconic features, the stadium is a central pillar of the University of Georgia campus and a landmark of college football.
History: A Vision Built "Between the Hedges"
The stadium is named for Dr. Steadman Vincent Sanford, a key figure in the history of UGA athletics. As an English instructor who went on to become the university's president and chancellor, Sanford was instrumental in moving the Bulldogs' home field from Herty Field to a new location in 1911. However, it was a devastating 1927 loss to in-state rival Georgia Tech—in a game where UGA was forced to travel to Tech's smaller stadium—that fueled Sanford's vision for a grand new venue. He devised a plan for the athletic association to secure a loan, and with the support of fans and alumni, construction began in 1928.
Sanford Stadium officially opened on October 12, 1929, with a seating capacity of 30,000. The Bulldogs, in a historic first game, defeated Yale 15-0. The stadium's most distinctive feature, the privet hedges that surround the field, were the inspiration of then-athletic business manager Charlie Martin, who wanted to replicate the rose hedge he saw at the Rose Bowl. Though roses were not suited for the Georgia climate, the privet hedges became a cherished and unique tradition, giving rise to the famous phrase, "playing between the hedges."
Over the decades, Sanford Stadium has grown to meet the demands of a top-tier college football program. The stadium's capacity has expanded numerous times, with major additions in 1967, 1981, 1991, 2003, and 2004. These renovations added upper decks, enclosed the east and west ends, and brought in modern amenities. In a historic moment, Sanford Stadium also hosted the medal round of the men's and women's Olympic soccer competition during the 1996 Summer Olympics.
In 2019, the playing surface was officially named Dooley Field at Sanford Stadium in honor of legendary coach and athletic director Vince Dooley, who led the Bulldogs to a national championship and countless victories.
Current Information
As of the 2024 season, Sanford Stadium has a seating capacity of 93,033, making it one of the largest on-campus stadiums in the nation. The field surface is natural grass (Tifton 419 Bermuda Grass).
Recent renovations have continued to modernize the facility while preserving its classic charm. These projects have focused on improving the fan experience with new concessions, restrooms, and premium seating options like the 1929 Club and various suites. The West End Zone has also seen significant enhancements, including a new locker room and recruiting space.
A recent update for the 2025 season returned the "GEORGIA" endzone lettering to a classic block font, a move that harkens back to the program's traditional look.
The stadium remains a place of pilgrimage for Georgia fans and a formidable environment for visiting teams. The thunderous roar of the crowd, the tradition of the hedges, and the storied history of the program combine to make game day at Dooley Field at Sanford Stadium an unforgettable experience.