$5M gift will come with name for field at Western Michigan University’s Waldo Stadium

KALAMAZOO, Mich. (WOOD) — Western Michigan University’s football field at Waldo Stadium will soon bear a new name thanks to a record-setting gift from a former player and his family.

David Stafford, Ronda Stafford and their family have given $5 million, the largest naming contribution in WMU Athletics’ history, leaders announced Wednesday . The football field will now be named Stafford-Smith Field for the Kalamazoo-based food service vendor company, which David Stafford owns and leads.

“My time as a Bronco was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. To have this incredible honor bestowed upon Stafford-Smith and my family is profoundly humbling,” said David Stafford, who played for the Broncos from 1986 to 1988, in a statement. “…Being able to say that I am a Bronco and played on the field, which will now have our family name, is something I will treasure for life.”

The donation will support future football programs, according to WMU Athletics.

“On behalf of our entire Bronco Football program, I want to extend our deepest gratitude to David and Ronda Stafford and their family for their generous gift,” said Head Football Coach Lance Taylor in a statement. “The naming of Stafford-Smith Field is a testament to their belief in the future of this program. It’s inspiring to see a Bronco football alum supporting the next generation of student-athletes, and this contribution will have a lasting influence on the future of Bronco football.”

The university says it will recognize the family and celebrate the $5 million gift at its homecoming game on Oct. 26.

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