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NCAA FCS

Duane StadiumNorth Andover, Massachusetts

Merrimack Warriors

About Duane Stadium

Duane Stadium is a 3,500-seat multi-purpose facility on the Merrimack College campus in North Andover, Massachusetts. Opening in 2017, the stadium features synthetic turf, an eight-lane track, luxury suites, and a press box. It serves as home to the Warriors football, field hockey, lacrosse, and track & field programs.

Duane Stadium History

Origins

The stadium opened on October 14, 2017 as "Warrior Stadium" to provide a modern home facility for Merrimack's growing athletics programs. Previously, the football team played at Martone-Mejail Field, which also served as the school's soccer and softball field. The stadium was later named after Ken and Jincie Duane, with Ken being a 1980 alumnus and former hockey and lacrosse player.

Notable Moments

Oct 14, 2017Grand opening: Merrimack defeated Pace 44-10 in first game
Sep 11, 2021First win vs ranked FCS opponent: Warriors upset #24 Holy Cross 35-21
Nov 12, 2022Warriors tied program record with 8th win in Division I era

Visiting Duane Stadium

Best Seats

The home side bleachers between the 30-yard lines offer the best sightlines at this intimate venue. With a capacity of only 3,500, most seats provide excellent views of the action. Student sections create an energetic atmosphere near the end zones.

Parking Tips

Lot M, located just seconds from Duane Stadium, is the only parking location allowing tailgating with alcohol and grills. It opens 3 hours before kickoff and closes one hour before the game. Season tailgate passes are available for all home games. General parking is available in Lot H and other campus lots at no charge.

Game Day

Arrive early to enjoy the tailgating atmosphere in Lot M. The Warriors are in their Division I era after moving up from Division II in 2019. Visit nearby Lawler Arena, home to Merrimack College Hockey, which hosts youth leagues and MIAA tournaments.

Local Recommendations

Bars & Drinks

Tavern On High

$$

Innovative drinks and fresh food in casual atmosphere in the historic West Mill. Features 30+ person bar with local craft beers and outdoor patio.

2 milesWest Mill, North Andover

Great spot for post-game celebrations with a large group.

The Autograph American Tavern

$$

American tavern with craft cocktails and beer selection. Popular gathering spot for locals and college visitors.

2.5 miles

Known for their extensive whiskey selection.

Matchplay Golf and Sports Lounge

$$

Sports lounge with golf simulators, billiards, and multiple TVs for watching games.

3 miles

Perfect for continuing the sports atmosphere after the game.

Restaurants

The Friendly Toast

$$

All-day brunch and bar featuring creative comfort food with funky, eclectic decor. Opened in 2021 adjacent to campus.

0.3 miles

Closest dining option to campus - arrive early on game days.

Burtons Grill & Bar

$$$

Upscale casual dining in Eaglewood Shops featuring burgers, salads, steaks, and fresh seafood.

2 miles

Popular pre-game spot with families. Reservations recommended for game days.

Grassfields Steak & Seafood

$$$

Upscale steakhouse with fresh seafood options and extensive wine list.

2.5 miles

Higher-end option for special occasions or post-game celebrations.

Hotels

Holiday Inn Express Andover North-Lawrence

$$

Closest hotel to Merrimack College with comfortable rooms and complimentary breakfast.

2.9 miles

Book well in advance for football weekends. Rates start around $219.

Courtyard Boston Andover

$$$

Marriott property ideally located near Merrimack River with easy access to campus and local attractions.

3.5 miles

Modern amenities and reliable service. Good option for families.

Attractions

Weir Hill

Free

Scenic trails for hiking and biking with vistas of Merrimack Valley and Lake Cochichewick. Features 4 miles of trails through 60-acre oak-hickory forest.

2 miles

Perfect morning activity before afternoon kickoffs.

Stevens-Coolidge Place

Free

Historic estate featuring formal gardens, walking trails, and colonial revival home with seasonal events and tours.

3 miles

Grounds open to the public year-round. Beautiful fall foliage during football season.

Parking Options

Lot M (Tailgate Lot)

Season pass available
TailgateAdjacent to stadium

Only lot allowing grills and alcohol. Opens 3 hours before kickoff, closes 1 hour before game.

Lot H (General Parking)

Free
Lot0.2 miles

Primary general parking for most fans. No charge for campus parking.

Campus Overflow Lots

Free
Lot0.3-0.5 miles

Additional parking available throughout campus at no charge.

Suggest a Tip

Know a great bar, restaurant, hotel, attraction, or parking spot near Duane Stadium? Share it with us.

Stadium Rankings

Duane Stadium ranks among the venues tracked on Fan Stamp as the 12th-newest.

Closest Stadiums to Duane Stadium

Frequently Asked Questions About Duane Stadium

What is the capacity of Duane Stadium?
Duane Stadium has a seating capacity of 3,500.
Where is Duane Stadium located?
Duane Stadium is located in North Andover, Massachusetts.
What team plays at Duane Stadium?
Duane Stadium is the home stadium of Merrimack Warriors in the Independent.
When was Duane Stadium built?
Duane Stadium opened in 2017.
Where are the best seats at Duane Stadium?
The home side bleachers between the 30-yard lines offer the best sightlines at this intimate venue. With a capacity of only 3,500, most seats provide excellent views of the action. Student sections create an energetic atmosphere near the end zones.
What are the best parking tips for Duane Stadium?
Lot M, located just seconds from Duane Stadium, is the only parking location allowing tailgating with alcohol and grills. It opens 3 hours before kickoff and closes one hour before the game. Season tailgate passes are available for all home games. General parking is available in Lot H and other campus lots at no charge.
What type of surface does Duane Stadium have?
Duane Stadium has a synthetic turf playing surface.
What stadiums are near Duane Stadium?
The closest stadiums to Duane Stadium are Harvard Stadium (21 mi), Fenway Park (22 mi), Alumni Stadium (23 mi), Wildcat Stadium (34 mi), Gillette Stadium (40 mi), W.B. Mason Stadium (42 mi).

References

Content sourced from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA) and official team sites. Additional information verified against public sources.