The University of North Alabama celebrated a historic milestone with the opening of Bobby Wallace Field at Bank Independent Stadium, bringing to life a vision for an on-campus stadium nearly 50 years in the making.

Following a ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday evening, the North Alabama Lions took the field Saturday for the first football game ever played on UNA’s campus. Nearly 12,000 students, alumni and fans filled the stadium and surrounding campus as UNA defeated Alcorn State 38–20 in its inaugural game.

Davis Architects served as architect for Bank Independent Stadium, with HPM serving as program manager and owner’s representative. The team also included Ampere as sports consultant and Fite Building Company as general contractor for the football stadium package. Together with the University of North Alabama and the broader consultant team, the project partners helped transform a nearly 50-year vision for an on-campus stadium into a new home for Lion Athletics and a gathering place for the greater Shoals community.

“September 19th was a special day for the University of North Alabama and the entire Shoals community. From the moment the gates opened to Bobby Wallace Field at Bank Independent Stadium, you could feel the excitement and pride throughout,” said Ryan Adams, Director of Athletic Facilities and Events, UNA. “The incredible support from the community, fans, alumni, students, athletes, and local businesses showed just how meaningful this new facility is to the area. Seeing everyone come together to celebrate the opening made the day about much more than a game—it was a celebration of the community and the opportunities this field will create for future generations. The success and energy of opening day showed that Bobby Wallace Field at Bank Independent Stadium is not just a new place to play, but a place where the university and community can come together to create lasting memories.”