An Ideas Based Practice

Endowment for the United States Air Force Academy

Indoor Football Practice Facility

Colorado Springs, CO

Description

The Endowment for the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) commissioned Cannon Design to design a state-of-the-art, multi-use, multi-sport indoor training facility, one that would rival those built in the Mountain West Conference and in other service Academies. As the USAFA competes on the national stage in all sports, the indoor training facility will provide regular uninterrupted daily preparation, enhancing the training opportunities for all Cadets, which is paramount to the success of its athletic programs. As a place of business for the cadets and coaches, the indoor training facility will provide a no nonsense approach to training, which was modeled after the elements of the Academy’s Falcon Stadium. The indoor field is designed as a replica of Falcon Stadium, with a full size turf field, camera and video platforms, and proper lighting. Graphics and banners immediately signify Falcon football.

The building is designed to meet USGBC LEED Silver criteria. A variety of systems and strategies were integrated to meet the LEED Silver criteria including ventilation, heating, cooling, lighting, turf systems, and water management. The interior of the space has 100% natural light, which is captured through translucent panels on the north and south facades of the building, with a translucent panel and glass wall to the west. The facility has been designed with a sun control system to the west in order to control the sun and glare while allowing for impressive views to the west.