Kelly/Shorts Stadium

Kelly/Shorts Stadium is the home of the Central Michigan University (CMU) Chippewas football team and the largest on-campus stadium in the Mid-American Conference (MAC), with a seating capacity of over 30,000. Located in Mount Pleasant, Michigan, our venue offers a vibrant and intimate setting to experience the excitement of Division I collegiate athletics. The playing surface, Kramer/Deromedi Field, honors two of CMU’s legendary football coaches, embodying a history of excellence and dedication.

A Rich History and Lasting Legacy

Opened in 1972, the stadium was originally named Perry Shorts Stadium, honoring R. Perry Shorts, a distinguished CMU alumnus and banker. It was renamed Kelly/Shorts Stadium in 1983 to also recognize Kenneth “Bill” Kelly, the Chippewas’ successful football coach from 1951-1966. This dual naming celebrates both philanthropic support and athletic history, reflecting the strong foundation of the CMU football program.

The Ultimate Gameday Experience

We are committed to providing a premier gameday environment for all fans. Our venue features a modern synthetic AstroTurf Gameday Grass surface, ensuring a high-quality field for competition. The stadium’s design creates an energetic and loud atmosphere, making it a challenging venue for visiting teams.

The Chippewa Champions Center: A New Era of Excellence

The recent addition of the Chippewa Champions Center, located at the stadium’s north end, marks a significant investment in CMU Athletics. This multi-purpose facility transforms the game-day experience by connecting the Chippewas’ locker room to the field via a tunnel and housing premium fan hospitality spaces.

Premium Amenities and Exclusive Spaces

Kelly/Shorts Stadium offers a variety of upgraded amenities for fans and guests:

Isabella Bank VIP Club: A 4,000-square-foot premium hospitality area in the Chippewa Champions Center, offering a climate-controlled lounge, outdoor patio, and a unique view as the team takes the field.
Luxury Suites and Loge Boxes: Located in the two-tiered West Side press box, these areas provide private, premium experiences with exclusive catering and elevated sightlines.
CMU Chippewas Varsity Shop: An on-site satellite store for all your official merchandise needs.

We invite you to join the Central Michigan community and experience the energy of a Chippewas football gameday at Kelly/Shorts Stadium. Fire Up Chips!