Missouri Southern State University Athletic Facilities
Missouri Southern State University (MSSU) boasts a diverse array of athletic facilities designed to support its student-athletes and provide high-quality venues for collegiate competition. From modern baseball fields to expansive indoor arenas, these facilities reflect the university's commitment to sports excellence and the generous support of its community and donors.
Key Facts
- Warren Turner Field returned baseball to campus for the first time in over 40 years in 2015.
- Fred G. Hughes Stadium has served as a primary outdoor venue since 1975.
- Leggett & Platt Athletic Center provides indoor seating for over 3,200 spectators.
- Robert Ellis Young Gymnasium continues to house the university's swimming pool and volleyball team.
Outdoor Sports Venues
Warren Turner Field
Opened in 2015, Warren Turner Field is named in honor of the long-time MSSU baseball coach, Warren Turner. The opening of this facility was a historic milestone, marking the first time the MSSU Baseball Program played on campus in more than four decades. The field hosted its inaugural game on February 14, 2015, against Upper Iowa University, followed by a formal dedication ceremony on April 18, 2015.
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Fred G. Hughes Stadium
Fred G. Hughes Stadium opened in 1975 and is named after Fred G. Hughes (1913–1994), a former publisher of the Joplin Globe and a member of the Missouri Southern board of regents from 1965 to 1981. To maintain high performance standards, the stadium's artificial turf—a synthetic grass surface—was replaced in 2003. Following a significant financial contribution from the Robert W. Plaster Foundation, the stadium is expected to be renamed in honor of Robert W. Plaster, while the entrance plaza may retain the Hughes name.
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Indoor Athletic Complexes
Leggett & Platt Athletic Center
The Leggett & Platt Athletic Center opened in 1999, funded largely by a major donation from Leggett & Platt, a prominent manufacturing firm based in Carthage, Missouri. This versatile facility serves as the primary hub for indoor sports, offering seating for more than 3,200 people for basketball games and other events. Additionally, the center houses a dedicated indoor track and field facility.
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Robert Ellis Young Gymnasium
Opened in 1968, the Robert Ellis Young Gymnasium is named after Robert Ellis Young (1919–1995), who served the region in the Missouri House of Representatives. With a capacity of 1,700 seats, this gymnasium was the home of the university's basketball teams from its opening until 1999. Today, the facility remains active as the home of the volleyball team and houses the university's swimming pool.
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Facility Summary
| Facility Name | Opened | Primary Use | Capacity/Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Warren Turner Field | 2015 | Baseball | First on-campus field in 40+ years |
| Fred G. Hughes Stadium | 1975 | Outdoor Sports | Artificial turf replaced in 2003 |
| Leggett & Platt Athletic Center | 1999 | Basketball/Track | 3,200+ seats |
| Robert Ellis Young Gymnasium | 1968 | Volleyball/Swimming | 1,700 seats |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Warren Turner Field named after?
The field is named after Warren Turner, who served as a long-time baseball coach for Missouri Southern State University.
When did the MSSU baseball program return to campus?
The program returned to playing on campus in 2015 with the opening of Warren Turner Field.
What is the seating capacity of the Leggett & Platt Athletic Center?
The center can accommodate more than 3,200 spectators for basketball and other indoor sporting events.
Which sports currently use the Robert Ellis Young Gymnasium?
The gymnasium is currently used by the university's volleyball team and houses the swimming pool.
Is Fred G. Hughes Stadium being renamed?
Yes, due to a large donation from the Robert W. Plaster Foundation, the stadium is expected to be renamed in honor of Robert W. Plaster, though the entrance plaza may keep the Hughes name.