Construction on Howard McCasland Field House is on schedule for completion by August.

The Field House, built in 1928, is currently undergoing a $4 million renovation project, said Kenny Mossman, OU associate athletic director for media relations. The renovations began in December 2004.

Mossman said the athletic department decided to renovate the Field House because it wanted to improve conditions for both athletes and fans. With the renovations, seating capacity will increase from around 2,000 to about 3,000.

"It's just a building that needed it because of its age and condition," he said. "We're going to turn it into a competitive venue. It just needs some work to make it a better setting."

Mossman said the renovations include a refurbished floor, air conditioning, a new heating system, new seating, paint and safety railings. The project also includes replacing the scoreboard and ceiling.

Mossman said that without air conditioning, the Field House has been an uncomfortable place for fans.

"A lot of sports stand to gain from this," he said. "It's been difficult for fans to follow them because of the environment."

Santiago Restrepo, OU volleyball head coach, said that because the weather is so hot in August when his team's season begins, it is important to have a welcoming environment for fans.

"We have made steps forward in improving our team," Restrepo said. "Our volleyball team has improved so much to becoming a winning program. I think it is very important that it is cool in the facility, so more fans come out and support."

Jack Spates, OU wrestling head coach, said the wrestling program also appreciates the renovation project.

"Let's face it. It needed some help," Spates said. "Our fans and athletes are excited to get into this facility. It's going to help us with increasing our fan base and improving our program. It's a great thing for Sooner athletes and fans. We can't wait."

The volleyball team has adjusted its training schedule due to the renovations. Restrepo said his team is training in the Huston Huffman Center until the Field House reopens.

"We're making really good adjustments," he said. "They've really gone out of their way to help us train by providing practice courts."

Mossman said working with the programs affected by the renovation will not be difficult because practice courts in Lloyd Noble Center and other athletic facilities are still available.

"We'll make accommodations for them at our other facilities during the renovation project," he said.

The last time the Field House went through a renovation project was in 1990 with the addition of a new floor and scoreboard.
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