Watson and Tressel Training Site (WATTS)

The Watson and Tressel Training Site (WATTS) was announced in the summer of 2007 when the Tressel and Watson Families presented the University with a $1 million donation. The donation was part of YSU's $43 million Centennial Capital Campaign.

The completion of this indoor facility is vital to the future success of Penguins football and the entire athletic department. In addition, the WATTS will serve as a community resource - providing a large, climate-protected venue for local youth organizations and high schools.

The indoor practice facility will provide the most critical ingredient to meet the challenges presented by the opportunity of playing nationally-recognized competition. The Penguins have enhanced their football schedules the past few years, playing Pittsburgh, Ohio State and Penn State.

When constructed, the seasonal facility will accommodate athletic team practices, intramural sports, campus-wide activities and special events benefiting students, faculty, staff and the community - especially during the fall, spring and harsh winter months. It will offer new and expanded opportunities to numerous groups.

Soccer, men's and women's track and field, baseball, softball and football would have the ability to practice in a safer, more comfortable environment. The facility would also provide a significantly prolonged practice season to meet the challenge of the elevated level of competition YSU seeks to embrace.

Utilization would benefit other campus constituencies as well. ROTC, intramurals and other student activities could now be engaged year round. Similarly, YSU can host numerous scholastic and community events that would equally benefit from the facility.

This project is seen as a public/private partnership in that the construction costs would be sought through private philanthropy. Once built, the operating costs would be absorbed by the University. Working together, we can continue to make YSU the center of the community and provide an environment that will aid in recruiting, retention and graduation of tomorrow's leaders.

To donate to the WATTS project, please contact Joe Cassese at (330) 941-2756.