Photo: Getty Images
Penn State University has sold the naming rights to its iconic football stadium, Beaver Stadium, to West Shore Home, a home improvement company based in Cumberland County. The stadium will now be known as West Shore Home Field at Beaver Stadium, following a $50 million contract approved by the Penn State Board of Trustees on Monday (March 10). The agreement will last through the 2039 season.
The renaming coincides with a massive $700 million renovation project at Beaver Stadium, which is expected to take several years to complete. The renovations aim to modernize the facility while maintaining its capacity to hold over 100,000 fans. Temporary bleacher seats and amenities will be installed during construction to accommodate fans.
West Shore Home's founder, B.J. Werzyn, a 1999 Penn State alumnus, expressed pride in supporting the university. He said, "Penn State is a global brand with the largest and most enthusiastic alumni network in the world. We’re honored to partner with Penn State in supporting the university and its student-athletes."
The decision to sell the naming rights sparked some controversy among board members. Trustee Anthony Lubrano argued for naming the field after former head football coach Joe Paterno, citing potential for significant fundraising. However, the motion to name the field after Paterno was not approved.
The naming rights sale marks a significant step in generating new revenue streams for Penn State Athletics, as the university seeks to enhance its facilities and support its programs. The new name will take effect starting with the 2025 football season.