It's the 40th Anniversary of Stambaugh Stadium being built and becoming the home of the Youngstown State University Penguins.

"This building's become just such an icon to this community," YSU Athletic Director Ron Strollo said, "So it's great to celebrate this milestone."

40 years later... the home of the Youngstown State University Penguins, Stambaugh Stadium, also known as the "Ice Castle" was built in the early 80s.

The stadium's first home opener was September 4th, 1982 when YSU's own faculty member and former football player, Paul McFadden, kicked off history.

"I had the honor of kicking off the first kick... first play in the history of Stambaugh Stadium," McFaddin said, "It was an incredible day for us youngsters. I was a junior, so we had watched the stadium being built for two years. So to lead up to that moment in time and be a part of that day was really, really special."

McFadden is now the YSU Foundation President. 

Four championships later... the beautiful stadium has taken on new renovations, from adding east side stands in 1997 to the new press box in 2019.

"Those alums who haven't been up to the stadium for years don't even recognize the place," McFadden said, "It's been totally transformed since 1982...numerous renovations, much improved."

The stadium now seats over 20,000 people.

"There have been some amazing games played here," Strollo said, "Especially in the 90s when we had the championship run."

McFadden said, "We were so happy in 82 to have our own home stadium, but what it's evolved to now is a first-class stadium in college football."