The 4,000-seat Walter Kunz Stadium on the northwest side of the North Campus has an eight-lane, 400-meter running track that also features a steeplechase course with a water jump. The stadium provides practice facilities for intramural activities, clubs, marching band, and team practices, and is also used for some special events.

Completed in August 1985, the stadium was first used for the 1985 Empire State Games, which attracted 10,000 athletes and officials. The stadium was enhanced in the fall of 1987 with the installation of a $150,000 electronic scoreboard. In addition to the 1985, 1986, and 1996 Empire State Games, the stadium has been utilized for the New York Special Olympics Summer Games and several scholastic and collegiate championships.

Namesake

Old UB Stadium was officially rededicated as Walter Kunz Stadium on April 16, 2005. Kunz (EdM '65, PhD '70) was a UB faculty member and longtime advocate and supporter of the athletics program and the Blue and White fund drive. He was instrumental in getting the stadium built, and his generous gift rehabilitated the stadium and added a new artificial surface.

Historical research and photographs provided by University Archives.

Building Facts

Primary function: Sports

Tenants: Division of Athletics

Architect: Sasaki, Dawson & DeMay

Completion date: August 1985