Two questions. One, will the grassy hill (Lalas' Hill?) allow spectators to sit and watch? I didn't think so, but, one of the graphics made of the the completed stadium has a poor rendition of people there. So, I figured I'd ask if anyone knew. Two, what kind of seating will the stadium have? I only ask because I don't know how they put the seats onto the concrete that's there. Do they just insert nails into it (and, if so, wouldn't that cause cracks around the hole)? Have they already left holes to insert seats into them? I guess I'm just curious. I haven't really paid attention when I've been at stadiums before. Although, I'm sure they just drill into the concrete or something. I dunno. Sorry if this is a stupid question.
As far as Lalas Hill having spectators this next year, that question has not really been answered as the interview with the stadium manager stated that capacity would vary do to "flexible seating". That comment has not been clarified yet. My educated guess is that it will not have fans in it but it is an area that is planned for expansion. The images you may have seen with fans in that end are, I believe, as it would look with the expansion. The stadium will have the fold-up seats (green I've heard) except in the goal line section where there will be bleachers. I'm not sure if the club seats will be different but perhaps they will be nicer.
The grass on the training fields is already in. In the stadium they still have to install the drainage and watering systems.
Ya know, I think the idea of a hill named after Alexi Lalas is pretty nice. It's the kind of thing that promotes club tradition and pride. In a way, I'd almost prefer if they never expanded upon that spot. It's a nice commemorative monument of sorts and would really be good for the identity of the club and fans if it remained. The kind of thing that, ten years from now parents, who are taking their kids to their first soccer match, will be able to answer the questions of, "Dad (or Mom), why is that just grass over there? Why don't they have seats? And, why is it called Lalas' hill?" But, this is just my feeling today. PS: Thanks for the info, wolves
I have a feeling even if seats go in there it will still be refered to as Lalas Hill. 7,000+(guess..maybe less) fans who would not be able to attend someday unless seating is expanded to the hill may not be as sentimental, however. It got the name because of Lalas running up the hill at the end of the Titan Stadium in Orange County after he scored the game winning goal in an Open Cup game. It just seems very appropiate to transfer the name to the new stadium.
Well, there is currently a "Lalas Land" at the Rose Bowl where he buys a bunch of tix and gives them to underpriveledged kids. Then there was that awesome Open Cup game in Titan Stadium where he did indeed run straight up the ivy-covered hill right after a goal... brilliant and funny. tm
this may be a stupid question, but over the past year I've seen a million designs for the stadium, anyway, will the stadium have roof over the stands or not?
Originally, there wasn't gonna be one. But Uncle Phil visited some stadia in Europe and realized just how much roofs rock. Ostensibly, if he starts building more SSS for his other teams, I'd imagine there'll be roofs all over the place. tm
They haven't finished building the stadium and someone is already sentimental about losing the hill to expansion! I miss all the "MLS to fold" threads.
I can still remember the day, almost like it was yesterday, when the press, players, politicians and others gathered to break ground on our beloved Vitoria Street. It was a sunny day, I think, and I have told many children my fond mememories of that historic day and hope they also pass those memories on to their children. All those wonderful times as we watched the progress. Those were the days.
Considering that they have already built some of the structures who's main purpose is supporting the roof, I would say it's a fair guess that it will be up when the stadium opens. All is on schedule. I would bet my life the roof will be in place this year.
Boy, I'm jealous! However, I'm very happy for the soccer fans on SoCal (this coming from a 'Quakes fan). I can't wait to make a road trip down to Carson this year...
Well, don't be jealous. It's a step forward for soccer in the US and for fans in San Jose too as it moves the day closer when soccer stadiums will begin to sprout like toadstools after a heavy spring rain.
Well now they are starting to put the roof up. The seats are already in one section of the stadium. They are Galaxy Green..
First, is there any indication whether they are ahead of schedule? Second, if they do finish early, is there any chance that MLS could/would change the schedule to get the Galaxy some home fixtures instead of the first 8 games on the road? Finally, anyone planning on getting some January pictures posted?