Story: Lisa Sollie | Photo: Cody Ingram
The University of West Alabama celebrated the completion of a 7,000 square foot renovation and expansion of its football locker room at Homer Field House with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on March 2.
The $4.7 million renovation and expansion project enhances the daily experience of UWA student-athletes while reinforcing the university鈥檚 commitment to excellence both on and off the field. Dedicated supporters of UWA Athletics contributed $1.3 million to help bring this project to life.
UWA President Dr. Todd G. Fritch said at the ribbon cutting ceremony that the project is a reflection of the University’s commitment to student success and strengthening the student experience.
“This celebration is a clear statement about who we are and who we are committed to becoming,” Fritch said. “Students are our purpose, and that guides every investment we make. Our student-athletes dedicate themselves to excellence in competition, in the classroom, and in leadership across our campus, and we want our facilities to match that dedication.”
Athletic Director Brett Gilliland, who previously served as head football coach for 11 years, told the crowd gathered that this renovation and expansion is a game-changer for UWA, built on a vision centered on students’ needs.
“It is rare for a facility construction project to turn out exactly like the vision,” Gilliland said. “So many times when a project is completed you may notice things you wish you had done differently, but not this one. This is exactly what we envisioned, especially for our student athletes.”
The new locker room features 116 lockers and a spacious meeting area designed to accommodate the entire roster. Fifty-three of the lockers have been sponsored by former Tigers and supporters and are recognized with commemorative plaques. Each state-of-the-art locker features integrated charging ports, built-in bench seating with storage, and secure lock boxes for personal valuables.
Named the 鈥淭iny鈥� Campora Locker Room, in memory of Don 鈥淭iny鈥� Campora through the generous support of Steve and Gayle Campora, the locker room marks the family’s commitment to and investment in UWA student-athletes and the Livingston community for more than a decade.
Head Football Coach Scott Cochran said that he looks forward to the program’s growth and development through his team’s use of the new amenities. The project was underway when Cochran joined UWA Athletics in February 2025.
“The vision for this place is incredible,” Cochran said. 鈥淲e鈥檝e been under construction since I walked in the door here. Just like the football team, we are always building, always trying to get better. Knowing that you have a facility like this鈥攚hen it comes to recruiting, when it comes to a standard of excellence鈥攊t lines right up with everyone鈥檚 vision for this place, and I get to see it every day and am grateful to be a part of it.鈥�
The renovation also includes a modernized cold plunge room, new restroom and shower facilities, and a separate entrance and exit to the field, eliminating the need to share space with the visiting team.
Upstairs, the facility features an updated reception area and the King-Ferris Football Team Room, honoring Coach Jim King, his wife, Sandy King, and their grandson, the late Patrick Ferris. The designation recognizes the family鈥檚 enduring legacy and profound impact on both the Livingston community and UWA football.
Adjacent to the King-Ferris Football Team Room is a dedicated student-athlete career development office designed to support professional growth beyond the playing field. The space will serve as a resource for virtual interviews, career preparation, and collaborative opportunities, including engagement with partners like Podium X who provide career preparation guidance for students. The room will be available to student-athletes across all programs as they prepare for life after graduation.
The Champions Deck, a new viewing terrace overlooking the south endzone, honors Livingston University alumni Ronnie and Kathy Gilliland and the 1971 NAIA National Championship football team. Made possible through the generosity of Steve and Gayle Campora, Champions Deck provides a premier vantage point while commemorating a milestone moment in UWA Athletics history.
鈥淭his space brings together the spirit of UWA Athletics and reflects the sense of community that is so strong at our University,鈥� Fritch said. 鈥淭his can be seen throughout the facility, whether in the gathering spaces that support team and fan fellowship, through the amenities offered to our student-athletes in the locker room, or the equipment that will support health and safety for the entire team. We can anticipate many exciting times ahead in this space.鈥�
