Auburn University shows off new $28M recruiting center
AUBURN, AL (WSFA) - Auburn University leaders unveiled the new Harbert Family Recruiting Center Friday at Jordan-Hare Stadium.
The center is located along the Tiger Walk route, and the top man in the athletic department conducted the grand tour to journalists, himself.
The Harbert Family Recruiting Center hugs the southwestern part of Jordan-Hare. A new plaza manned by a tiger statue ready to pounce.
"And if you notice up here, it's called the Toomer's chandelier," said Auburn University Athletic Director Allen Greene who liked what he saw and felt.
"Thinking about from the perspective of an 18-year-old and their family, this feels big time," he expressed.
Auburn recruits will notice right away the 11x35 videoboard that towers above the lobby. To the left, the recruiting lounge.
"So we're headed to the locker room next," Greene said as he led the way on the tour. Down the corridor, the Auburn Creed and the new locker room, which is much bigger and quite decorative.
"So what we're able to do is take advantage of trying to get a better experience for our prospects for our prospects and their families," Greene said.
Upstairs is the Tiger Walk Club, which encompasses two floors with a view of Tiger Walk on Saturdays in the fall. And at the very top, the new press box allowing journalists a different view of the field and the play in action.
But what really impressed Greene, and perhaps future recruits, the most is the Heisman Room. Rich, low-lighting, a virtual living room, a nod to those who paved the way in years past.
'"A place for 5-star recruits and their families to come in here," Greene explained.
The total bill on this construction job is $28 million. University leaders say this is the largest expansion at Jordan-Hare since the 1980s.
A recruit has yet to step foot inside the Harbert Family Recruiting Center but it won't be long now; just in time before the new season kicks off.
The entire project took more than a year to complete. University officials say the money came from the athletic department and donations.
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