Technology

AJP completes tech upgrades for Clemson’s Memorial Stadium

Images: Clemson University

Anthony James Partners (AJP), an owner’s representative and AV consultant that specialises in AV technology systems and solutions, has completed a range of technology improvements at Memorial Stadium, home of Clemson University’s American football team, the Tigers.

AJP worked alongside Clemson, LS3P and Brasfield & Gorrie on the project, which cost almost $20m (£17.1m/€19.7m).

The project served as the first phase of a wider $65m renovation of Memorial Stadium focusing on audio and video technology upgrades, along with the creation of the Masters Club. The work was completed in time for the Tigers’ home opener on Saturday.

A key part of the project is a new LED scoreboard at the east end of the 82,500-seat stadium, which is also known as Death Valley. The scoreboard features almost 7,112 square feet of 10mm, HDR-capable LED and is nearly five times the size of the old display.

A new point-source audio system will also look to deliver “serious acoustical impact” in every seat. AJP said the scoreboard will house some of the most powerful speaker technology available in the industry, specifically the Adamson loudspeaker system.

New auxiliary displays have also been fitted in the west end zone, while hundreds of feet of LED ribbon boards have been installed in the north, south and west. Stadium signage has been updated and replaced to highlight the history of Clemson University, which is based in Clemson, South Carolina.

Additionally, a custom-designed lift system will see Clemson’s iconic tiger rise from the top of the scoreboard to ensure the continuation of a game-day tradition. The upgrades also include backlit seals of each of the branches of the military.

Eric Sabin, associate athletic director of capital projects at Clemson, said: “Memorial Stadium is an iconic venue with a deep history dating back to 1942, and we have loyal fans that take our traditions very seriously. It was imperative that any renovations being made to the stadium are state-of-the-art, yet don’t stray too far from our roots.

“Anthony James Partners worked closely with us to come up with a solution that met our needs, taking that sensitivity about tradition into consideration, while also delivering a first-class AV technology design that is sure to appease our fans. From the larger-than-life scoreboard that features our famous tiger to a booming sound system, Anthony James Partners delivered in every way.”

Michael Rowe, chief executive and one of the founding principals of AJP, added: “We’ve been a proud member of the Clemson family for many years and have enjoyed being a part of so many great projects together.

“We’ve devoted a tremendous amount of time and attention to ensure that Clemson fans will get to experience next-generation technology for Memorial Stadium without losing the history or tradition associated with the facility and the University itself.

“The detail that went into every new element of the scoreboard was exceptional and, like all projects in the post-COVID world, there were many challenges along the way. We were grateful to meet each challenge alongside great partners like LS3P and Brasfield & Gorrie, and we can’t wait for Clemson fans to see and hear the next generation of technology.”

In January, ASM Global acquired a controlling interest in AJP. ASM Global said the move was designed to support the increasing demand for strategic technology solutions across its venue portfolio.