LETHBRIDGE- After almost five years of discussions and planning, followed by over a year of construction, the University of Lethbridge Community Sports Stadium was officially opened today.

The $12-million facility will be able to host football, rugby and soccer games, as well as some track and field events.

The university, city, province and several community groups all chipped in to help cover the cost.

One of the most unique aspects of the field is its artificial turf, which was an important feature that will allow for heavier use and help deal with our Southern Alberta weather.

Mayor Bob Tarleck also noted that the new facility when combined with others around the city, now give Lethbridge the ability to host provincial and even national sporting events. Sporting events like the Western Canada Games, the Alberta Summer Games and the Canada Summer Games are all within reach now, along with tournaments in football, rugby, soccer and track and field.

UofL President Bill Cade talks about some of things that really make the facility stand out: