What is the capacity of SHI Stadium?

SHI Stadium holds 52,454 and is the birthplace of college football—Rutgers played Princeton in the first game here on November 6, 1869. Named for Piscataway-based Summit Health Inc. (SHI International), the stadium sits on the Busch Campus where that historic game took place.

🏛️History

Origins

Originally Rutgers Stadium, opened September 12, 1994 with a 32-0 loss to Penn State. Built to replace the aging 23,000-seat Rutgers Stadium. The first intercollegiate football game was played on this ground in 1869.

Major Renovations

2009$102M expansion: south end zone enclosed, capacity to 52,454

2019New HD video board and enhanced sound system

2020SHI International acquired naming rights

Notable Moments

Nov 6, 1869First college football game ever: Rutgers beat Princeton 6-4 on this site

Nov 9, 2006Rutgers upset #3 Louisville 28-25 in prime time—national spotlight moment

Oct 14, 2023Rutgers upset #6 Michigan State 31-28 at home

🎟️Visitor Guide

Best Seats

Premium seating in the Hale Center Suites and Club Level. Sections 117-119 offer midfield views. East side has afternoon shade. Student section is in sections 137-141 (south end zone).

Parking Tips

Stadium lots off River Road open 5 hours before kickoff. Yellow Lot is the main tailgate area. Free shuttle from Livingston Campus. Use NJ Transit train to New Brunswick and shuttle to stadium. Traffic on Route 18 is heavy.

Game Day

R Lot tailgating is legendary—grills, games, and Scarlet Knights spirit. Scarlet Walk brings players through fans 2 hours before kickoff. Learn the "Upstream, Red Team!" chant. Birthplace of College Football monument commemorates 1869. Clear bag policy enforced.