Jim Mize Track and Field Complex

Starting with the 2009 season, Louisiana Tech's championship track and field programs had a state-of-the-art facility to call home.

For decades the programs had overcome an outdated facility adjacent to Joe Aillet Stadium on Louisiana Tech's campus, still managing to win several championships. That all changed in March 2008 when construction began on a new facility.

Since the sport of track has changed drastically from the time the old track at Tech was constructed in the 1970s, several updates were needed. Furthermore, because the new track was being built in the same area as the previous one, the old track needed to be completely removed. Not that the old facility didn't enjoy its time in the sun; on the contrary, it hosted the three Southland Conference Championships as well as the 1991 American South Conference Championships.

One of the many upgrades with the new track is a practice field in the middle, which can be used for soccer and football. To accommodate the need, the new track needed to be wider than the previous one.

"The new facility allows us to practice better and more efficiently," Tech head men's and women's track coach Gary Stanley said. "It also contains several throwing and jumping areas so our teams can practice at the same time."

Completed in August 2008, the new Jim Mize Track and Field Complex includes a modern drainage system, a much bigger high jump apron and a new location for the steeplechase course. Previously on the outside of the track, the steeplechase pit has been moved on the inside, similar with most tracks.