Crosby Field unveiled: EMU’s new turf is ready for use

In a significant moment for Eastern Michigan University, NFL star Maxx Crosby and his wife Rachel Crosby, a former EMU soccer student-athlete, donated $1 million to upgrade the university’s football field and other athletic programs.

The donation funded the removal of the existing track, installation of a new playing surface and other major athletic improvements. In recognition of Crosby’s influence, the field will be named Maxx Crosby Field.

Upon returning to EMU for the milestone event on June 21, three-time NFL Pro Bowler Maxx Crosby expressed his deep gratitude and thanked head coach Chris Creighton for being with him since his youth.

“Every camp rejected me, but I refused to give up. I’m obsessed with what I do and I didn’t take no for an answer, and that’s how I live my life every single day,” Crosby said.

Athletic Director Scott Weatherbee praised the Crosbys’ commitment, emphasizing that their first donation last fall inspired additional contributions totaling $5.5 million.

Weatherbee emphasized the importance of the renovation for the football and track and field programs. “Our football program deserves its own stadium and our track and field programs deserve their own space. We are building a new track and field facility that will be completed in September. This will allow all sports to thrive without any overlap.”

Creighton spoke emotionally about Crosby’s journey and character.

“The Crosbys are E-Tough!” Creighton said. “At rock bottom — and we had a rock bottom here — you guys bounced back. You told everyone, you never gave up, that’s what faith means; never giving up and being obsessed with doing your best. When we unveil Crosby Field, it’s Rachel and Maxx Crosby who did it together, and it wasn’t easy. You guys are the epitome of who we are and what we want to be.”

Creighton emphasized the close connection between Crosby’s career and the values ​​of EMU football.

“Maxx embodies our spirit. Even when others doubted him, he persevered. His unwavering commitment to excellence is what we strive for in our program,” he said.

Weatherbee reflected on the path that led to this moment. “It was just a year ago that we inducted Maxx into Ring of Honor here. We talked about the need for new turf and the possibility of removing the race track. Maxx’s eyes lit up at the idea. When he and Rachel offered to help with the financing, we knew we could do it,” he said.

Maxx Crosby also shared his vision for the future.

“You know, for me it was about giving back,” Crosby said. “I told Coach Creighton and Weatherbee I wanted to do something big. I mean, they’re talking about little things here now. We’ll do it right when it’s time, and we did it. So it’s just the beginning.”

The impact of the Crosbys’ donation goes beyond the immediate renovations. It shows their commitment to fostering a winning culture and increasing fan engagement. Crosby referenced his time at EMU and the improvements he has seen since his return.

“When I first came to Eastern, it was a night and day difference compared to when I left. We started winning and more people came. It was tough at first, but we learned how to win and grow.”

Crosby described his journey to EMU, which was full of challenges and determination.

“My family, my teammates and everyone here has been part of this journey,” he said. “Every day I try to improve by that one percent and strive to be the best version of myself. None of this would be possible without Rachel, who has supported me every step of the way.”

As a tribute to Maxx Crosby’s indomitable spirit and love of the game, Eastern Michigan University honored his journey in the NFL by painting the turf “Raider Gray,” a color reminiscent of his time with the Las Vegas Raiders.

This decision recognizes Crosby’s pursuit of excellence and reflects his famous quote that he is ready for any challenge: “We’ll play anyone, anytime, anywhere, even in a parking lot full of broken glass.”

As the EMU community awaits the unveiling of the new Maxx Crosby Field, the Crosbys’ generosity will undoubtedly inspire future generations of athletes and instill a renewed sense of pride and commitment among students and fans.

The exclusive Crosby Field Celebration welcomed Maxx and Rachel Crosby to their college home at Eastern Michigan University, where the EMU athletic department unveiled the newly renovated field. This event was a significant milestone for Eastern Michigan football and showcased the newly renovated playing surface.

Attendees had the unique opportunity to step onto the brand new field and celebrate with the proud EMU community. Individual tickets, priced at $250 each, went 100% directly to Eastern Michigan Football, supporting its NIL and academic award programs. In addition to recognizing the Crosbys’ generous donation, the event also highlighted their lasting impact on EMU sports, which ensures a bright future for student-athletes.