Akron’s football team took a break from summer drills to grill lunch for the construction workers building InfoCision Stadium, the Zips’ new facility set to open in 2009.

The student-athletes grilled hamburgers and provided drinks, while the lead construction contractor contributed sandwiches and pizza and a local company donated chips. Head coach J.D. Brookhart helped deliver the food.

“I was excited to hear we would be doing this for these workers today,” defensive captain Doug Williams said. “I am proud to represent our team and know this gesture is just a little, but well-deserved, recognition for their hard work.”

Bowl excavation is complete at the stadium site, utility lines are installed and concrete for the lower retaining walls on the east and west sides have been poured. All the luxury suites and 25 loge boxes are sold.

“From the day they started tearing down the old dorms, I have been continually impressed with this project,” Brookhart said. “These guys are doing a tremendous job, and InfoCision Stadium is progressing on schedule thanks to the efforts of these workers here today. I get excited every day when I see what they have done. You can really get a feel for how this stadium will look.”

The Zips will host Indiana on September 19, 2009 to open the stadium.