PULLMAN, Wash. – Washington State University held a groundbreaking ceremony for its new indoor practice facility, the Taylor Sports Complex, Saturday, Sept. 9.

The celebration, which occurred prior to the Cougars' 31-22 win against Wisconsin at Gesa Field, took place inside the current indoor practice facility, which is two decades old and known as "the bubble" because of its air-supported roof.

The cost of the facility is covered entirely by philanthropic support, with $27.2M raised in private donor funds. The WSU Board of Regents gave the go-ahead to the capital project during its meeting, Sept. 15.

"I want us to celebrate everything about WSU today…a real celebration of not only this facility but the power of philanthropy at Washington State University," WSU President Kirk Schulz said during the ceremony. 

"This is a reflection of the willingness to make a difference in philanthropy," Director of Athletics Pat Chun said at the ceremony. 

The permanent structure will include a full 120-yard field, dedicated sprint lanes and jump pits for track and field, improved lighting, and enhanced cameras, which will be able to capture multiple angles of practice.

Construction of the Taylor Sports Complex, at the site of "the bubble," has started with demolition of the current "bubble" structure and is scheduled to be completed in September 2024.

To watch the ceremony in its entirety, visit the WSU Athletics YouTube channel HERE.