Here is an update on the renovation of Jake Sweeney Automotive Stadium at Pat Mancuso Field.
During the Princeton stadium project's weekly construction meeting, district officials, construction partners, and project representatives determined that the stadium site will not be ready for occupancy in time for the start of the 2026 fall athletic season.
While construction has made tremendous progress, several remaining items outside the control of the district and project team require additional time to ensure the facility is completed safely and to the high standards our students, staff, and community deserve. Rather than rush occupancy, the district updated the Board of Education on Monday, August 3, 2026, and has decided to postpone the stadium's opening until Friday, October 2, 2026, to play the first home game against Mason High School during Princeton’s Homecoming Week.
"We know our students, families, alumni, and community have been eagerly anticipating the return to our renovated stadium," said Joe Roberts, athletic director. "While this is certainly disappointing, our priority is ensuring the project is completed the right way. We appreciate our community’s patience and understanding as we work through these final steps to deliver a first-class facility that will serve Princeton students for generations. We plan to have a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Saturday, September 26, 2026, as part of the planned Homecoming kick-off festivities."
Fall Athletics Schedule Adjustments
Princeton City Schools’ Athletic Department is actively finalizing alternate locations for athletic events scheduled prior to the stadium opening.
Current plans include:
Boys and Girls Soccer: Alternate sites are being secured.
Middle School Football: Alternate sites are being secured.
Varsity Football home games in September have been moved to Roettger Stadium in Lockland
September 4 vs. Colerain
September 11 vs. Sycamore
September 18 vs. Lakota West
Updated schedules and venue information will be communicated with student-athletes, families, and the community as soon as they are confirmed.
Stadium Opening Celebration
The Princeton Vikings are planning several events to celebrate the completion of the renovation and welcome the community back to Jake Sweeney Automotive Stadium.
Saturday, September 26
People of Princeton Festival and Stadium Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
A community celebration and open house will provide residents, alumni, students, and supporters an opportunity to tour the newly renovated Jake Sweeney Automotive Stadium at Pat Mancuso Field before competition begins. The event will be from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. and will include the first home performance of the Pride of Princeton Marching Band. There will be concessions, food trucks, performances, games, and activities.
Wednesday, September 30
Homecoming Parade and Community Pep Rally
Line the corner of Chester and Sharon Roads to see the Homecoming Court, along with student groups, Navy Junior Reserve Training Corps, the Pride of Princeton Marching Band, Princeton Cheerleaders, sports teams, and representatives from each of the elementary schools walk from Princeton Community Middle School into the stadium for a pep rally. Admission is free and open to the public.
Friday, October 2
Homecoming Football Game, Staff Appreciation Night, and Community Officials Night
Princeton vs. Mason
Kickoff: 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, October 3
All Class Reunion
The Princeton Amphitheater will set the stage for Princeton’s All Class Reunion. Food trucks, live bands and music, and a kid zone will help the Viking Alumni celebrate their Princeton pride. The October 3rd event will run from noon until 5:00 PM and is sponsored by the Princeton Alumni Association and the Princeton Athletic Boosters.
“This stadium represents an investment in our students and our community, and we look forward to celebrating this exciting new chapter together during Homecoming Week,” stated Dr. Mari Phillips, superintendent.
Princeton City Schools thanks its students, families, athletic programs, community members, and construction partners for their continued support and flexibility throughout the renovation process. Additional updates regarding event locations, schedules, and opening celebrations will be shared on the district website, www.princetonschools.net, as they become available.