El Camino College celebrated the grand opening of the new Athletic Education and Fitness Complex / Murdock Stadium with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Sept. 1. The brand new, state-of-the-art facility officially opened just in time for the first football game of the 2016 season.

The campus community joined President Maloney, ECC Board Members and South Bay leaders to celebrate this historic occasion with a ribbon-cutting, tours, and testimonials from student-athletes. Also attending were several members of the Murdock family, descendants of El Camino College founding President Forrest G. Murdock.

Carol Murdock, daughter-in-law of the late president, was pleased to return to the El Camino College campus for the celebration. She is an alumna and former employee – and she also attended the ceremony in 1958 when the stadium was named in honor of former President Murdock.

The $48 million facility was funded by the 2002 Measure E facilities bond. It supports the college’s outstanding men’s and women’s athletic programs and kinesiology classes. The modern stadium replaces the original structure, which was built in 1949. The complex includes a 7,869-seat stadium; synthetic turf fields for both football and soccer; a collegiate nine-lane running track with pole vault, high jump, long jump, and steeple chase; and an athletic training facility, modern locker rooms, and a new equipment room.

Drought-tolerant plants and reclaimed water are used throughout the site. There are also elevated viewing areas, a roof-top filming deck, and a press box for both the home team and visitors. Communication and technology features include: sitewide Wi-Fi; wireless communication; and audio/visual systems. Another great feature is a community walking track for residents and college employees.