The University of Minnesota Duluth Department of Intercollegiate Athletics is expressing appreciation for the support that helped make major facility projects possible for Bulldog student-athletes as well as other campus and community users.

"Our Bulldog programs, by and large, are continuously competing for conference and NCAA championships," said UMD Athletic Director Josh Berlo. "Top-level facilities are key to achieving the competitive excellence portion of our three C's mission of classroom, competition and community. These upgrades and enhancements will support nearly every Bulldog student-athlete, coach and staff member as they strive for excellence. We sincerely appreciate the incredible support of our donors and campus partners whom have made several of these projects a reality."

The following are some of the UMD athletics' recent facility renovations:

• Romano Gymnasium video board:  Measuring 12 feet tall and 20 feet wide, this ultra-high resolution 6mm Daktronics video display will be installed on the north end of Romano Gymnasium this summer and promises to greatly enhance the fan experience for Bulldog volleyball and men's and women's basketball games. Game feeds, replays, updated statistics and various graphics are among the display's many features. The $300,000 project was funded entirely by Bulldog athletics donors and comes four years after a similar type of video board was added at James S. Malosky Stadium, home of UMD football, soccer and softball.

• Malosky Stadium track and turf replacement: Ending an era of athletes running on a track that was older than them, the eight-lane running track that was built in 1985 is getting a complete overhaul to the tune of $1.2 million. That includes replacing the asphalt base and adding a new surface to both the track and "D ring".  This renovation is expected to bring in additional revenue by making UMD a highly competitive venue when it comes to hosting collegiate, high school and amateur track and field meets. One year ago, the artificial turf was upgraded as was the drainage system and goal posts at Malosky Stadium, which is generally recognized as Northern Minnesota's premier outdoor venue. Student service fee support played a substantial role in making this renovation possible.

• Seyfer Team Room and Video Training Suite: Thanks to the generosity of Mike and Heather Seyfer, the Bulldogs now have a bonafide team meeting and video room. Equipped with two large projection screens and five high definition monitors, this recently-converted classroom located in the lower floor of the Sports and Health Center has seating for up to 100 and can be easily sectioned into two separate rooms for concurrent use. The space is ideal for UMD teams meet and utilize the latest technology for strategic skill development, game planning and scouting opponents.

• Erickson Athletics Reception Area: The UMD athletic department's entrance area received a much-needed facelift this past winter and now is a modern and welcoming space for guests and Bulldog staff. It is named in honor of the project's benefactors  -- Clyde and Lynne Erickson, a long-time UMD athletic department employee and Bulldog supporter.