Hanna Kale, Communications, 27’

August 30th, 2023, was an exhilarating night that meshed the lines between two of Nebraska’s favorite sports, as the Cornhuskers’ recently showcased their volleyball skills on the Memorial Football stadium with a match against Omaha.  The Nebraska Cornhuskers sold out their traditional football stadium and transformed it into a volleyball heaven for their fans. Electrified supporters packed into the stadium to watch their beloved teams under an open sky. The attendance was recorded to be 92,003, which breaks the record for most fan attendance at a women’s game in history. This match also shattered the NCAA volleyball attendance record for any sport, which was 18,755.  Nebraska’s volleyball match was way more than just a game, it was a symbol and celebration of sportsmanship and equality. Two worlds, Football and Volleyball, completely different from each other collided and created something truly amazing.

The huskers ran through a giant crowd of intense fans while coach John Cook led the team down a red carpet onto the field. This experience was definitely one to remember for the women who were a part of this team. No other team has even come close to experiencing something like this before, and is truly the opportunity of a lifetime. The atmosphere erupted with anticipation as fans from all over the country assembled to witness history before their eyes.  Nebraska fans made themselves heard that night, screaming familiar chants of “Go Big Red” through the stadium. There was a strong sense of unity among opposing crowds as lovers of volleyball came together to watch their home teams. As the teams took the field, there was a palpable sense of excitement that coursed through the stadium. The players that were once accustomed to the confinement of the indoor arena were now playing under a completely different atmosphere. This was a whole new ballpark for these players, and they quickly adjusted to the new circumstances. 

Husker Nation, you’ve done it.

The WORLD RECORD for a Women’s Sporting Event lives in Lincoln.

Today’s attendance: 9️⃣2️⃣,0️⃣0️⃣3️⃣

There is NO PLACE like Nebraska. pic.twitter.com/lQFguWHyp8

— Nebraska Volleyball (@HuskerVB) August 31, 2023

What does this entail for female volleyball players?

Nebraska volleyball made history for the women’s athletes and it marked a significant milestone for the world of sports. It brought forth equality that broke traditional barriers. Historically, football stadiums have been only associated with men’s sports, and by allowing the women’s volleyball team to compete on the same field, it sends a huge message to women’s athletes that they can compete in the same stadiums regardless of gender.  It breaks gender stereotypes and provides equal opportunities for both men and women in NCAA athletics. Playing on memorial field provided increased attention to the sport of women’s volleyball and allowed a broader audience to view this game. Football stadiums usually always attract bigger crowds than Volleyball gyms and courts. Nebraska’s home gym can fit approximately 8,309 people which is just a fraction of what a college football stadium can hold at roughly 90,000. The memorial stadium capacity is 85,000 but the stadium sold tickets past capacity, holding 92,000 fans. By playing in such a significant setting, the women’s volleyball team is able to attract more viewers, and it helps elevate the image of women’s volleyball and the achievements of these magnificent female athletes.  

The significance of Memorial Field goes way beyond the world of sports, as it holds a place in history for Nebraska’s culture and history. By hosting the women’s volleyball match in this iconic venue, it honors and showcases the legacy for these female athletes by recognizing their contributions to the athletic world. It also stands as a reason for younger female athletes to look up to these women. It represents that women can compete at the highest level of sports and still become successful while playing in male dominated venues. It broke down reinforced barriers, and overall it encourages young girls to pursue their athletic dreams in their respected sport.