The New Yankees Stadium

I. Thesis: In the year of 2009, the New York Yankees will be opening the season in a brand new stadium, called the "New Yankee Stadium."

A. Introduction: Yankee Stadium is without a doubt one of the most famous sports arenas in the history of mankind. To fully understand its significance, it's important to understand the history of Yankee Stadium. Then, one can learn about why they're building a new stadium, as well as the specifications and new additions that will be part of the new stadium in 2009.

B. History:

1. Built in 1927, 3^rd oldest stadium

2. Location-Bronx, NY

3. Known as House that Ruth Built

4. Short distance to right field

5. Renovated in 1974-1975 season

6. Famous events have occurred in Yankee Stadium

a. Mantle and Maris homerun race

b. Perfect games

c. 4 out of 5 World Series

According to Mickey Mantle, "To play 18 years in Yankee Stadium is the best thing that could ever happen to a ball player.

C. Why a new Stadium?

1. Dates back to 1980, Steinbrenner wanted to move to safer part of city.

2. Due to increased attendance in 90's, better security they postponed it.

3. In 2001, Mayor Giuliani approved a $1 billion dollar stadium to be built.

a. Due to 9/11, it did not happen

4. In August 2006, Major Bloomberg and Yankee President Randy Devine break ground for new $800 million dollar stadium.

When question about new stadium, Derek Jeter said, "There's been a lot of history here, a lot of good memories. We're going to try and take that tradition and move it across the street."

D. New Stadium Specifications:

1. Will resemble the pre-renovation exterior of the original stadium.

2. Interior will be more modern. (ex: Camden Yards)

3. Replica of copper frieze that lined upper deck since 1973. (Was removed when renovated).

4. "Great hall" between perimeter wall and stadium, features 1 million square feet of retail space, significant increase over previous stadium.

5. Dimensions will be identical.

6. Will seat 51,000 fans, approximately 7,000 less fans than previous. HOWEVER, will include 60 luxury boxes, compared to the current 16 at Yankee Stadium.

7. Bowl shaped, rather than stacked, fans will be further from field.

8. Monument park will be moved to the center field of new stadium, as well as a restaurant

9. 3000 more parking spaces.

According to Randy Devine, President of the Yankees, "This new stadium will present new comforts, new features and be state-of-the-art in every way. It will be the most spectacular fan-friendly stadium ever built.

E. Conclusion: Due to the history of this stadium, this event will have a big impact on the State of New York, the players, as well as many fans all around the world. By understanding the history, why a new stadium is being built, in addition to the specifications of it, you are now informed of one of the more popular topics in today's sports.