Bowers Stadium is one step closer to getting ready for Bearkat crowds.

Representatives from Sam Houston State University and Hoar Construction joined to celebrate the accomplishment of completing all the structural steel for the stadium’s new press box on Aug. 28. Following this ceremonial milestone, Hoar Construction is expected to begin construction of the press box’s interior.

The final stadium improvements are scheduled for completion in time for the 2026 football season.

SHSU President Dr. Alisa White voiced excitement over this step in the process.

“I’m thrilled about today’s event because it is a visual reminder of all that we’re working for all across campus,” White said. “Not just in athletics, but in every aspect of the university.”

White anticipates that the new press box will bring a fun, vibrant, and lively atmosphere to Bearkat football games.

For this season, that atmosphere will be held off campus. While construction finishes up at Bowers Stadium, the SHSU football team will be calling Shell Energy Stadium home for the season.

“It’s such a blessing to have this opportunity to grow this facility for our students [who] are coming through Sam Houston State University and for our football program,” said Casey Cox, senior director of giving for fundraising and development.