St. John's breaks ground on stadium

Real Estate Weekly, March 6, 2002

Using the shovel that was employed to break ground on the first buildings constructed on Queens campus in the 1950s, St. John's University kicked off construction of Belson Soccer Stadium on the Queens campus recently, commencing the latest project in the university's master plan.

Taking part in the groundbreaking ceremony were St. John's University president Rev. Donald J. Harrington, project donors Maxine and Jerome Belson and their son, Tad; and Red Storm men's soccer coach Dave Masur. Construction of the soccer stadium will begin immediately and the field is expected to be ready for play in the fall of 2002.

The stadium, to be used for the men's and women's soccer programs, is primarily funded by a $6 million gift from the Belsons. Jerome Belson is a graduate of the School of Law, a member of the University's board of trustees, and a generous benefactor of St. John's. The new stadium will seat approximately 3,000 spectators and include a press box, private suites, and media room. It will be situated on a raised platform, with parking underneath, adjacent to the St. John's baseball field.

"Once again, we are blessed by the extraordinary generosity of Maxine and Jerry Belson, as we further enhance our Queens campus, and our entire university," said Fr. Harrington. "This stadium will greatly benefit our outstanding student-athletes, especially our soccer teams, for years to come."