Crosby Field revealed: EMU’s new field ready for action

In an important time for Eastern Michigan University, NFL star Maxx Crosby and his wife, EMU football alumna Rachel Crosby, have donated $1 million to help revamp the field college football and other sports programs.

The contribution funded the removal of the existing track, installation of a new playing surface and other substantial sporting improvements. In recognition of Crosby’s impact, the field will be named Maxx Crosby Field.

Returning to EMU for the June 21 milestone event, three-time NFL Pro Bowler Maxx Crosby expressed his deep gratitude, thanking head coach Chris Creighton for guiding him since his teenage years.

“Every camp turned me down, but I refused to give up. I’m obsessed with what I do and I wasn’t going to take no for an answer, and I live my life that way every day,” Crosby said.

Athletic director Scott Weatherbee praised the Crosbys’ commitment, noting how their lead gift sparked additional contributions totaling $5.5 million last fall.

Weatherbee emphasized the importance of the renovation to the football and track and field programs. “Our football program deserves a dedicated stadium, and our athletic programs deserve their own space. We are building a new track installation, which will be completed in September. This allows each sport to thrive without overlapping.

Creighton spoke fondly of Crosby’s background and character.

“The Crosbys are T-Tough!” » said Creighton. “At the lowest point – and we had a low here – you bounced back, you just told everyone, you never gave up, that’s believing; never giving up or giving up and being obsessed with giving your best As we unveil Crosby Field, it was Rachel and Maxx Crosby who did it together, and it wasn’t easy. who we are and what we want to be.

Creighton emphasized the deep connection between Crosby’s background and EMU’s football values.

“Maxx embodies our spirit. Even when others doubted him, he persevered. His unwavering commitment to excellence is what we look for in our program,” he said.

Weatherbee reflected on the journey that led to this moment. “Just a year ago, we were here to introduce Maxx to Ring of Honor. We talked about the need for new turf and the possibility of removing the track. Maxx’s eyes lit up at the idea. When he and Rachel offered to help financially, we knew we could do it,” he said.

Maxx Crosby also shared his vision for the future.

“You know, for me it was about giving back,” Crosby said. “I told Coach Creighton and Weatherbee that I wanted to do something big. I mean, they’re talking about little things here now. We’re going to do it the right way when the time comes, and we got it done. So this is just the beginning.

The impact of the Crosbys’ gift goes beyond the immediate renovations. This means a commitment to fostering a winning culture and increasing fan engagement. Crosby referenced his time at EMU and the improvements he has seen since his return.

“When I got to Eastern, it was night and day compared to when I left. We started winning and more and more people started showing up. At first it was difficult, but we learned to win and grow.

Crosby recounted his journey to EMU, which was filled with challenges and determination.

“My family, my teammates and everyone here has been a part of this journey,” he said. “I look for that 1% improvement every day and strive to be the best version of myself. None of this would be possible without Rachel, who has supported me every step of the way.”

As a tribute to Maxx Crosby’s indomitable spirit and love of the game, Eastern Michigan University honored his NFL journey by maintaining the field in “Raider Grey,” a color reminiscent of his tenure with the NFL Raiders. Las Vegas.

The move celebrates Crosby’s dedication to excellence and echoes his famous quote about taking on any challenge: “We’ll play anyone, anytime, anywhere, even on a parking lot covered in broken glass. »

As the EMU community eagerly awaits the unveiling of the new Maxx Crosby Field, the generosity of the Crosbys will undoubtedly inspire future generations of athletes and foster a renewed sense of pride and commitment among students and fans.

The exclusive Crosby Field celebration welcomed Maxx and Rachel Crosby to their residence hall at Eastern Michigan University, where the EMU athletics department unveiled the newly renovated field. This event marked a milestone for Eastern Michigan Football, showcasing its newly renovated playing surface.

Attendees had the unique opportunity to enter this brand new realm and celebrate with the proud EMU community. Individual tickets, priced at $250 each, contributed 100% of their proceeds directly to Eastern Michigan Football, strengthening its NIL and academic rewards programs. Beyond the Crosbys’ generous gift, the event highlighted their lasting impact on EMU athletics, ensuring a bright future for student-athletes.