Purdue University’s New Performance Complex Sets the Bar for Collegiate Athletic Training

Boilermaker football enters a new era today with the dedication of the new Purdue Football Performance Complex. Designed by Populous, the $65 million facility highlights the role of training facilities as drivers of program success as Purdue continues its push as a championship-caliber football team. Focused on maximizing efficiency inside and out, the Football Performance Complex connects indoor and outdoor practice fields and houses all football program operations.

“By weaving together program history with their aspirations for the future, the Performance Complex is a true home for the Boilermakers where they can create a new era of football,” said Sherri Privitera, Populous principal in charge for the project.

The Football Performance Complex is a three-level structure amassing 112,000 square feet, situated between the Mollenkopf indoor practice facility and outdoor practice fields. Designed to inspire and energize players and recruits with its striking exterior, the exterior of the building features bold roof lines and distinct gold and black branding.

On the inside, a grand entrance lobby showcasing the Boilermakers’ history and tradition welcomes guests. However, the heart of the facility is a 20,900 square foot weight room designed as a flexible training space to cater to the team’s and individual’s training needs. A sports medicine area with recovery pools and underwater treadmills takes care of recovery, while multiple fuel stations and a dedicated kitchen handle nutrition.

Team meeting rooms, position group meeting rooms and coaches’ and support staff offices were designed to accommodate specific needs for player development and education. Placement of each space was carefully considered to ensure the state-of-the-art complex will significantly enhance the football student-athlete experience.

In addition to first-class amenities, locating all football operations in one facility will result in a more efficient use of the student-athletes’ time. Before the facility opened, football-related facilities were housed in multiple buildings.

“The facility is a model for recruiting and training, and a visible sign Purdue is serious about winning,” said Mike Berghoff, Chair of the Trustees for Purdue University.

In addition to the Purdue Football Performance Complex, other recent Populous-designed training facilities include the Barry Switzer Center at the University of Oklahoma, Colorado State University’s Multi-Purpose Stadium, Froedtert & The Medical College of Wisconsin Sports Science Center in Milwaukee and the Champions Center at the University of Colorado.

Populous has worked on more than 130 campuses across the nation, serving more than 42 million football fans, players and staff. For more information about Populous’ presence in collegiate athletics, contact us at [email protected].