About Dean A. Hayes Track and Soccer Stadium
Dean A. Hayes Track and Soccer Stadium is an on-campus sports facility at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. An outdoor complex combining a regulation NCAA soccer field with an Olympic-size track, it is one of the key venues on the Blue Raider campus. Built beginning in 1996 and opened in the fall of 1998 (goblueraiders.com ), the stadium was later named for long-time MTSU track coach Dean Hayes. Coach Hayes led the Blue Raider track program for decades and became a local sports legend, so the facility’s name honors his legacy. With a seating capacity of roughly 1,500, Hayes Stadium serves both the university’s athletics programs and community events. Its prime location next to Johnny “Red” Floyd Stadium (the football venue) off Greenland Drive emphasizes its role as part of MTSU’s sports complex (goblueraiders.com ).
The stadium is notable for hosting a range of track and soccer events. It is **unique** in Murfreesboro as one of the few venues offering a championship-quality track encircling a NCAA soccer pitch. Fans often see Blue Raider women’s soccer games here, as well as collegiate track meets. Because it combines two sports on one field, the venue has a wide, multi-use grass infield and extensive field events facilities (long jump pits, pole vault, etc.) around the track. Its design is straightforward and functional: a single long grandstand on the home side with a press box, plus terrain and stairs on the opposite side. The entire stadium is outdoor with concrete-and-metal bleachers, made to accommodate fans in fair-weather conditions. Though it lacks elaborate architectural flourishes, it prides itself on a well-maintained playing surface and modern athletics infrastructure.
Historically, Hayes Stadium has helped shape MTSU’s sports culture. For example, it hosted the **2000 Ohio Valley Conference Outdoor Track & Field Championships** and was the site of the 2016 and 2025 Conference USA track championships (tssaasports.com ) (goblueraiders.com ). It also frequently hosts Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association (TSSAA) state track-and-field meets and local Special Olympics competitions (goblueraiders.com ). In soccer, it has attracted high-profile opponents – the Blue Raiders have drawn teams like Florida State (the No.1-ranked women’s team in 2016), Ole Miss (ranked No.12 in 2022), as well as regional powers like Tennessee and Vanderbilt (goblueraiders.com ). Those matches have built local excitement and occasionally sold-out crowds. Beyond competition, the stadium’s very name celebrates integration and diversity: Coach Dean Hayes famously signed MTSU’s first Black track scholarship athlete (1965) and opened the program to international stars (goblueraiders.com ), so the venue stands as a testament to those pioneering efforts.
Events and Programming
The Dean A. Hayes Stadium hosts **year-round athletics events**. In the fall, it is the home field for the MTSU women’s soccer team. The Blue Raiders typically schedule about 10–12 home games each season, facing regional programs in Sun Belt or Conference USA play and occasional non-conference foes. Home games generally occur midweek or on weekends (e.g. evenings at 5–7 PM local time), with attendance ranging from a few hundred to over a thousand for marquee matches (goblueraiders.com ). Recent notable games at Hayes Stadium include a 2016 contest vs. #1 Florida State (attendance 1,087) and significant victories over Tennessee and Alabama in the early 2010s (goblueraiders.com ). Lower-division or exhibition matches (like local colleges or high schools) may also appear on the schedule occasionally. Typical ticket prices for university soccer are low; student entry is often included with student ID, and public tickets can be about $5–$10, though premium or postseason games cost more. Detailed schedules and ticket information are published each summer by MTSU Athletics.
In the spring and early summer, Hayes Stadium’s focus shifts to **track and field meets**. The 400-meter track (eight lanes, 42 inches each (tssaasports.com )) is used for MTSU’s own home track meets and high school invitational and championship events. The stadium stage annual TSSAA State Track & Field Championships (often called “Spring Fling”) every May, drawing thousands of student athletes from schools statewide (goblueraiders.com ) (tssaasports.com ). In fact, TSSAA typically uses Hayes Stadium as a venue; for example, the 2025 Class I/II state track meet is slated there (tn.milesplit.com ). MTSU also hosts larger conference meets – it was the site of the **2016 Conference USA Outdoor Championships** and will again host the C-USA championships in 2025 and 2026 (tssaasports.com ) (goblueraiders.com ). The stadium even hosts USA Track & Field events: for instance, the annual Music City Track Carnival (a regional invitational meet) was held at Hayes in late May 2024 (worldathletics.org ). These meets bring elite college and open runners to Murfreesboro, highlighting the facility’s certified, broadcast-capable track.
Other events at Hayes Stadium include community and student gatherings. The venue regularly hosts the Tennessee Special Olympics track events at the end of the spring season (goblueraiders.com ). It has also staged MTSU club sports and occasional youth athletic camps on the infield. Unlike some multi-purpose stadiums, Hayes is *not* typically used for concerts or non-sport entertainment shows – it remains dedicated mainly to track and soccer. Its use as an NCAA competition site (for both soccer and track) underscores its focus: most programming is athletic, sometimes supplemented by fundraisers or charity races that circle the track.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for soccer matches or track meets at Hayes Stadium are usually sold through official MTSU channels. For Blue Raider soccer games, fans can buy tickets on the MTSU Athletics website or at the MTSU ticket office. Often, advance sales open a few weeks before the season or match. Students typically get in free or very cheaply by presenting a valid student ID. For general public games, single-game tickets are usually inexpensive (often under $10) for reserved bleacher seating, with very affordable adult and youth rates. Big rivalry or conference games may sell out, so early purchase is wise. At higher-level tournaments (for example, the Conference USA or TSSAA track championships), tickets are sold per day – for instance, TSSAA charged $12 per day in advance and $15 at the gate for the 2025 meet (tssaasports.com ). These tickets cover all-day access to the track events.
On game or meet day, a small box-office window next to Hayes Stadium typically opens shortly before events (about one hour prior) to sell any remaining tickets. Fans often form lines before popular games. Many fans also use MTSU’s online ticket system (when available) or smartphone apps, but it’s possible to pay cash at the gate as well. There are usually no special “presales” by sponsors – only student-athlete families or special promotions may reserve blocks of seats. A good strategy for popular events is to purchase tickets as soon as they go on sale, and to arrive early on game day. Group sales (for youth teams or schools) can sometimes be arranged through athletic department contact.
Seating and Layout
Hayes Stadium’s seating is fairly basic but functional. The main spectator stand runs along one long side of the soccer field (and track), facing the field. This grandstand has a metal frame with bench-style rows (no individual seats), and includes the press box at its top for announcers and media. This home-side stand seats most of the 1,500 fans (the official seating capacity (visitrutherfordtn.com )). On the opposite side of the field/track, there is no covered stand – spectators can stand on concrete steps or sit on a small open bleacher near the goal line, or bring chairs to the grass if room allows. In most games, people congregate on the main stand side. The field-level area around the track is open, so families sometimes stand at fence-side or use folding chairs behind the backstretch.
Best viewing is generally from mid-field on the main (home) side since you see the full width of the soccer pitch and track. The press box and scoreboard are centrally located atop this stand. Seats at the very top row have a panoramic view of the whole complex, ideal for track meets. Some fans prefer sitting nearer the track on the first few rows to be close to field events (jumps, throws). The end-line areas behind the soccer goal have limited seating, so those spots are less popular. There are no VIP suites or chair-back tickets – all seating is general admission along bleachers. There is no shade cover except for a small roof over the press box. (Some spectators bring seat pads and sunscreen for comfort.) Because of the wide track, anyone sitting on the home stand’s far end will be farther from the opposite goal, but mid-pitch seats are evenly distanced.
In terms of acoustics and connections, Hayes Stadium is an open-air venue. Its public address system and scoreboard (digital clock/score display) provide game announcements, though some visitors have noted the stadium audio isn’t as powerful as a closed arena (dean-a-hayes-track-and-soccer-stadium.wheree.com ). The scoreboard flashes game time and score for soccer matches and can handle multiple events. Importantly for media, Hayes Stadium is fully equipped to broadcast: its press box has built-in camera and network hookups to stream or televise matches online or on TV (goblueraiders.com ). Floodlighting is installed around the track, enabling night-time meets and games. Overall, seating is simple but provides clear sightlines for athletics at any point on the field or track.
Getting There and Parking
Dean A. Hayes Stadium is located at **1568 Greenland Drive** on the east side of MTSU’s main campus in Murfreesboro. It is easily reached from Interstate 24 (take Exit 81 onto US-231/SR-10/SR-96 toward Lebanon; follow Memorial Blvd and then Greenland Drive). The stadium sits adjacent to Floyd Stadium (MTSU football), so one can navigate by following campus signs. GPS directions to Greenland Dr or the MTSU soccer complex will lead directly to the venue.
For drivers, MTSU offers parking in nearby lots on Greenland Drive and the surrounding campus. On regular event days (soccer games, smaller meets), parking is usually free in student/faculty lots after check-in, but crowds should arrive early to grab spots close to the stadium. For large championship meets (like the Spring Fling state track meet), a nominal parking fee is charged (TSSAA charges $5 per day (tssaasports.com )). At those events, special passes or day permits are used, and a single pass may be honored at all Spring Fling venues. Otherwise, fans park in designated visitor lots. Shuttles or campus shuttles (the Raider Xpress) may run for certain events, but availability varies by season.
Public transit is limited in Murfreesboro. Several city bus (Rover) routes have stops on or near the MTSU campus, so local visitors can take Rover if schedules align. However, many game-day attendees rely on rideshare or driving. For rideshare drop-offs and pickups (Uber, Lyft), the university has previously set a pickup/drop-off location at the intersection of Middle Tennessee Boulevard and Alma Mater Drive (goblueraiders.com ) (used during football games and likely applicable for other events). This spot is about a 5–10 minute walk from Hayes Stadium. Taxis can similarly be directed to MTSU’s campus front gates. Pedestrians arriving from on-campus housing can walk via the campus pathways.
Nearby, there are no paid parking garages specifically for the stadium, but plenty of surface campus lots exist. ADA parking is available in the closest lots, and accessible drop-off points are near the entrance. On weeks without big events, street parking on Greenland or adjacent campus roads may also be possible (check signage for restrictions). Overall, plan to leave extra time for parking in or around campus lots, and watch for special parking signage on game days.
Inside the Venue
Upon entering Hayes Stadium, fans pass through one main gate adjacent to the home stand. Event staff or security may verify tickets (paper or electronic) and perform a quick bag check. The venue adheres to standard NCAA safety rules: no weapons, no large bags (only clear bags or small purses typically), and no outside alcohol. Smoking and e-cigarettes are strictly prohibited inside the facility (tssaasports.com ). Coolers and large containers are not allowed on the concourse or seating areas (tssaasports.com ). Otherwise, entry is straightforward and casual. Those with questions or needing assistance (lost tickets, directions) can speak to the ushers or athletic staff in the concourse.
The atmosphere inside is generally family-friendly and community-oriented. On soccer match days, the crowd is energetic but not overwhelming – local fans and students cheer for the Blue Raiders, music is played between halves, and announcers guide the game. During track meets, the vibe is more subdued until exciting races; the noise mostly comes from cheers at the finish lines or whistles from officials. The press box announcer, whose PA covers the stadium, keeps the audience informed of scores and heat results. Although the stadium lighting is bright enough for evening events, some seating areas (especially the far end of the main stand) can feel dim after sunset, so bring warm or reflective clothing for cool nights.
Concessions are available along the concourse in the turn near the entry or beside the home stands. A kiosk sells typical stadium fare—hot dogs, hamburgers, nachos, popcorn, candy, soda, and bottled water. Because the venue serves amateur events, food options are modest. Cash and credit cards are accepted. No hard liquor is sold (beer or wine availability depends on the event and local policy, but often beer is not served at college soccer events). Fans with dietary needs sometimes bring small snacks if allowed, but check staff since outside food is generally discouraged.
Restroom facilities are located under the main stand. There are separate men’s and women’s restrooms (plus an ADA-accessible restroom) in a tiled hallway at the back of the concourse. On busy days, expect lines, but restrooms are clean but basic (no baby-changing station). Portable toilets might be placed outside for very large meets, but normally the permanent restrooms suffice.
Merchandise stands may appear on big-game occasions. A small pop-up stand in front of the home bleachers sells MTSU sports apparel (T-shirts, hats, scarves) and game programs, particularly during tournaments. For most regular games, the MTSU team store (off-campus) is the source for gear, but occasional matchday gear is offered at stadium entrances. Wi-Fi connectivity inside the stadium is spotty; while MTSU has campus wireless, it may not extend well into the open seating. Cell phone service (AT&T, Verizon, etc.) is usually sufficient for live updates. Fans often use phones to track game stats or look up information when commentary is limited.
Nearby Amenities
Hayes Stadium sits on MTSU’s campus, which is near various dining and lodging options. On-campus dining is limited outside school hours, but just off campus (within a mile or two) there are many restaurants and bars. For example, Firebirds Wood Fired Grill (American steakhouse), Wingstop, and several fast-casual chains are a short drive to the north. Several casual sports bars (like The Loading Dock Tavern) and Mexican or pizza places dot the area by Veterans Parkway and Greenland Drive. Downtown Murfreesboro is only about 3 miles west and offers dozens of eateries on the historic Square (Southern comfort food, Asian fusion, breweries, coffee shops, etc.). Fans often arrive early and dine in Murfreesboro before games; popular pregame choices include locally owned restaurants and pubs near the campus, from barbecue joints to burger bars.
For those needing to stay overnight, several hotels are conveniently near campus. Within a 3–5 minute drive are the Wingate by Wyndham (labeled “- Near MTSU”), DoubleTree by Hilton, Holiday Inn Express, Candlewood Suites, and Sleep Inn, plus a few budget motels. Since MTSU is a common destination for sports events, group rates are sometimes available. Parking lots behind these hotels typically fill quickly on big event weekends.
It’s wise to arrive at the stadium at least 30–45 minutes before kickoff or event start, especially if you plan to dine or handle parking. That allows time to find a space, settle into the stands, and enjoy any warm-up. For evening events, remember that Murfreesboro traffic can be slow during peak hours, so leaving extra time is advised. After late-night events, rideshare or shuttle services may be the safest option back to hotels—public transit (city bus) is sparse after dark. Many fans simply walk a few blocks back to campus parking if they left a car there.
What Makes This Venue Special
Though modest in size, Hayes Stadium has a distinct character rooted in local history and community pride. It is one of Murfreesboro’s primary athletic gathering places, and it carries the name of a coach (Dean A. Hayes) who is a legend in the area. Hayes, who revolutionized the Blue Raider track program for decades, ensured the venue (dedicated in his honor in 2009) remains a symbol of excellence. The stadium is special to MTSU alumni as the site of many collegiate triumphs – for instance, the 2006 perfect home soccer season and surprising upsets over ranked SEC teams (goblueraiders.com ). It has also been the launching pad for international Olympic athletes who trained under Hayes.
Its dual-purpose nature means it has hosted a little piece of local sports history in two arenas. Culturally, Hayes Stadium connects Murfreesboro’s youth programs to the college level — every spring thousands of Tennessee high-school athletes sprint around its track lanes. The stadium’s role in hosting Special Olympics events reinforces its significance to inclusivity and community. Even the fans’ traditions add local flavor: you’ll often hear Rocky Top or the perennial fight song from the crowd, and a down-home atmosphere pervades on game nights. Players also enjoy the intimate setting; despite being college athletes, they often comment that Hayes Stadium feels like a friendly home field.
Architecturally, Hayes Stadium is straightforward, but it sits beside Floyd Stadium in a campus sports corridor, making for a pleasing quad of blue-and-white facilities. There are no sweeping arches, but the stadium’s simplicity lets the surrounding campus greenery stand out. In sum, what makes Hayes Stadium special is its combination of historical resonance (Coach Hayes’s legacy and the progress of MTSU sports) and its role as a community hub for athletics and education. Both visiting teams and local families tend to appreciate the warm, down-to-earth vibe that this longtime MTSU venue offers.
Visitor Tips and Information
**Accessibility:** Hayes Stadium is ADA-accessible. Wheelchair-accessible parking is located near the entrance, and the stadium has ramps and a designated seating area for those with disabilities (tssaasports.com ). Accessible restrooms are available under the main stand. If you need any special accommodations, contact MTSU Athletics in advance to arrange seating or support.
**What to Bring (and Not):** Dress casually and in layers. Tennessee weather can be hot and sunny for day games (bring sunscreen and a hat) or cool in May evenings (a light jacket may be wise). Bring your ticket or have it ready on your phone. A telephone and chargers are fine; many fans use phones at events for photos or updates. Small cameras are allowed for personal use, but professional gear (large lenses, tripods) may be restricted. Umbrellas are okay unless they obstruct neighbors’ views. Do not bring large bags, alcohol, or sports balls. Water bottles are recommended (empty if security is strict); concession stands sell drinks too. A seat cushion or cushion pad is a good idea since bleachers have no backs. Finally, arrive early to find a good spot – popular seats (mid-sections) fill up, and a few minutes before kick is often too late to wander.
**Transportation:** If you drove, park in marked lots; bring a parking pass if required, especially for big events (some venues use hangtags or prepaid permits). As with any college campus, watch speed limits and pedestrian traffic on Greenland Drive. For rideshare, request the closest corner to campus (e.g. Alma Mater Drive). If using the Rover bus, the campus routes running MLK, SC, or 84 come near the arena – check the Murfreesboro Rover schedule for times.
**Common Pitfalls:** A frequent mistake is underestimating travel time in Murfreesboro, especially on I-24; allow extra driving time. Also, if tickets sold out online, avoid scalpers – sometimes last-minute returns are available late at the box office. Another tip: wear closed-toe shoes if you plan to walk around the track or infield (especially after rain, the field area can muddy). Last, check the weather forecast. Hayes Stadium is open-air, so rain (with no canopy) will soak spectators. For soccer, games may proceed in light rain; for thunderstorms, officials may delay or reschedule for safety.
**Age Restrictions and Policies:** The venue is family-friendly and there are no age restrictions. Children are welcome in all areas. Tailgating is not a feature at this stadium (no parking lot festivals). Security officers enforce sportsmanship rules (no profanity or harassment). As at any NCAA site, standard codes of conduct apply.
**Insider Tip:** If you want a quiet walk with a view, try watching the pre-game warmups from outside the main entrance, where you can see the whole field without crowd noise. For soccer fans, bringing a foam finger or flag in Blue Raider colors (blue and white) helps create a loyal atmosphere. In track meets, a small folding chair or cushion at track-level by the finish line is prized seating. And always remember to cheer – Blue Raider athletes respond to crowd energy, even in a small venue. With these tips, a visit to Hayes Stadium should be smooth and enjoyable.
What is the seating capacity of Dean A. Hayes Track and Soccer Stadium?
The stadium’s official seating capacity is about 1,500 spectators (visitrutherfordtn.com ). This includes the main grandstand on the home side, which holds most seats. On busy days, additional fans can stand or sit along the track.
Does the stadium have a water or turf field?
The field at Hayes Stadium is a regulation NCAA soccer pitch. Recent sources describe it as a well-maintained natural grass playing surface. The track surrounding it is a synthetic eight-lane track, certified for competition (tssaasports.com ).
Where can I buy tickets for events at Hayes Stadium?
Tickets for MTSU soccer games are sold through the MTSU Athletics website or at the on-site ticket office. For larger track meets (like conference or state championships), tickets are sold per day; for example, TSSAA charged $12 in advance and $15 at the gate (tssaasports.com ). The stadium typically has a small box office window opening about one hour before events for day-of sales.
What transportation options are available to the stadium?
Most visitors drive. The stadium is accessed via I-24 to US-231 (Memorial Boulevard), then Greenland Drive. On-campus parking is available in MTSU lots near the stadium (check fee or permit requirements for big events). Murfreesboro’s local bus (Rover) has campus routes, but service is limited on evenings. Rideshares (Uber/Lyft) may drop fans at Middle Tennessee Blvd & Alma Mater Drive (goblueraiders.com ), a short walk from Hayes Stadium. Accessible shuttle service (the Raider Xpress) is also sometimes provided for major events.
What seating options does the stadium offer?
There is one main covered stand along the sideline with bench-style bleacher seating, which includes a press box. A smaller open bleacher behind one goal provides a few side seats. The opposite side of the field has no permanent seats – people can stand or bring folding chairs. There are no luxury or individual padded seats. The best views are from mid-field in the main stand. Wheelchair-accessible seating is provided on the home side (tssaasports.com ).
Can I bring food or drinks into the stadium?
Outside food and drinks are generally *not* permitted inside Hayes Stadium due to venue policies. Concession stands inside sell water, soda, and snacks. Small sealed water bottles are usually allowed, but coolers are prohibited (tssaasports.com ). Alcohol from outside is not allowed; licensed concessions may sell beer or wine during select events, but check event rules.
Are there accessibility features at Hayes Stadium?
Yes. Hayes Stadium is wheelchair accessible. There is accessible parking nearby, ramps into the venue, and designated wheelchair seating areas (tssaasports.com ). Accessible restrooms are also located under the main stand. The stadium meets ADA standards for public sports facilities.
What items are prohibited inside the stadium?
The stadium prohibits weapons, large bags, and outside alcohol. Specifically, coolers are not allowed (tssaasports.com ). Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is also banned on the premises (tssaasports.com ). Pets (except service animals) are not permitted. Umbrellas may be allowed if they do not block views. Check event signage for any additional restrictions.
Does Dean A. Hayes Stadium have a sound system and lights?
Yes. The stadium has floodlights for night-time events, illuminating the track and field. A public-address system covers announcements, though some fans note it’s modest in power. There is an electronic scoreboard/clock for games. The infrastructure supports sports broadcasting from the press box, letting home games be streamed or televised (goblueraiders.com ).
What is the history of the stadium's name?
The facility was originally just called the Soccer and Track & Field Stadium. In 2009, MTSU officially named it after Dean A. Hayes, the longtime coach who put Middle Tennessee track and field on the national map (goblueraiders.com ). The naming was approved by the Tennessee Board of Regents in March 2009, honoring Coach Hayes’s decades of service.
Are children allowed at Hayes Stadium events?
Yes. The stadium is family-friendly and open to all ages. Parents often bring children to soccer games or track meets. There are no age restrictions. (Of course, minors must follow the same safety and conduct rules as adults.) Youth sports teams sometimes attend as spectators or participate in track events.
Is photography allowed inside the stadium?
Personal photography is allowed. Fans commonly take photos or selfies during games. The stadium does not have a strict “no photos” rule, provided you keep cameras small and do not obstruct other people’s view. Professional camera equipment (large lenses, tripods) may require media credentials or permission. Always be respectful of the game and other fans when taking pictures.
