OSU Set To Begin Construction On Indoor Facility

News9.com

STILLWATER, Oklahoma – Oklahoma State University athletic director Mike Holder announced Tuesday that the University will begin construction on the Sherman E. Smith Training Center, the school's indoor practice facility, in August 2011.

The Smith Center and practice fields will the latest addition to OSU's athletic facilities.

Work is already underway on the new grass and turf practice fields that will be located adjacent to the Smith Center and just north of Boone Pickens Stadium.

The approximate cost for the new indoor facility will be $16 million, with the practice fields and surrounding fencing to be completed for $3 million.

"It's fitting that two of the most important structures for OSU Athletics will be across the street from each other and will bear the names of Sherman Smith and Boone Pickens," said Holder.

"Sherman Smith was a good friend of mine," Holder added. "His relationship with Boone Pickens dates back to the 1940s. They shared the same birthday, were in the same fraternity and had a business relationship."

Smith's gift for OSU's practice facility was originally termed an endowment.

"We owe another thank you to the Smith family," Holder said. "They have allowed us to use their gift for the construction of the indoor facility. Boone Pickens has made a testamentary gift that will provide for the endowment of the facility."

OSU is continuing to fundraise for the practice fields project and construction on the Smith Center is expected to start August 1, 2011.