Adelaide United have unveiled a new and improved Coopers Stadium following significant investment in the A-Leagues venue, including the introduction of a dedicated “safe standing” active supporters area.
As part of the $53.5million upgrade at South Australia’s “Home of Football” over a three-month process, there will be a safe-standing area for active fans which will “increase vibrancy and supporter engagement” for the 2024-25 season.
“Developed in consultation with Adelaide United and the Red Army supporters group, the safe standing zone will comprise two bays behind the Stadium’s northern goals (N13 and N14), bringing more energy and atmosphere to the all-important home team end,” the Reds said in a release as the Isuzu UTE A-League side prepare to kick-off their campaign against defending champions Central Coast Mariners on October 26.
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“Seats in the designated safe standing zone will be locked during A-League matches to form temporary terraces, providing fans with room to comfortably and safely stand and cheer during games, and will then be readjusted for other events at the Stadium, such as music concerts. Rails have also been installed, within these bays to further support fan safety.”
That is not the only upgrade, with the installation of a new pitch, 15 new screens – including two large video replay screens and 13 digital signage screen across seven bars) throughout the stadium.
In addition, there is new state-of-the-art drainage and irrigation systems and a FIFA-approved synthetic sideline edging for player warm-ups.
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“Coopers Stadium is the spiritual home of football in South Australia, and the latest upgrades enhance the match day experience for both players and fans, further cementing Coopers Stadium as the best football venue in Australia,” said Adelaide United CEO Nathan Kosmina.
“We thank Adelaide Venue Management and the State Government for their ongoing support and we can’t wait for the new A-Leagues Season to commence from 26 October.”
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“AVM is committed to best supporting our community. We take great pride in not only our facilities and playing surface at Coopers Stadium, but also our partnership with Adelaide United to ensure an outstanding fan experience,” said Adelaide Venue Management CEO Martin Radcliffe.
“We’re really excited about the new elements we’ve added to the Stadium this season. Safe standing, which will be an Adelaide first, is something the fans have long wanted. We’re really pleased to have worked with Adelaide United and the Red Army to find a solution that suits all parties, helping passionate fans best get behind their team.Â
“Our intimate design ensures a unique fan experience in Australia.”
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Tourism minister Zoe Bettison added: “Our own Coopers Stadium is considered by fans around the country as one of the best football stadiums in Australia.
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“South Australians and visitors alike have always lauded Coopers Stadium’s lively atmosphere and intimate viewing experience and I know that the recent upgrades will only add to the vibrancy of the Stadium and engagement of fans.
“We’re proud of our sporting infrastructure here in South Australia and committed to ensuring that we provide our elite sportspeople the very best playing surfaces and environments. Our Government’s investment in Coopers Stadium is proof of this very commitment.
“Adelaide thrives on major events that engage the community and also put South Australia on the map, and we’re really excited to have our own Coopers Stadium as part of our city’s range of outstanding venues.
“Our government is highly committed to securing and delivering world-class major events that involve and benefit the community while also attracting visitors from interstate and overseas and we are thrilled to be able to take the Coopers Stadium experience to the next level, whether that be at Adelaide United games, concerts or other major events.”
Featured image: Adelaide United