June 7, 2007

MILWAUKEE - A $1 million lead gift from KBS Construction, Inc., and its chairman, Dennis Klein, will dramatically transform Marquette University's men's and women's soccer programs. As a result of Klein's generosity, the Athletic Department has officially launched its campaign for a new soccer stadium to be named for the Klein family, the university announced today

The new stadium, to be constructed on the programs' current home Valley Fields, will feature a top-quality natural-grass pitch, partially covered spectator seating, team locker and meeting rooms, concessions and restrooms. The cost of the new stadium, which will be funded through private gifts, will total approximately $5 million.

"Two of my greatest loves are Marquette and soccer. One of my greatest joys in recent years has been the opportunity to see my sons play soccer at the collegiate level," Klein said. "My wife and I recognize the important and positive role interscholastic sports can play in a young person's life, and we are pleased to have this opportunity to help develop a premiere soccer facility for Marquette."

"The Klein family's gift provides significant momentum towards the construction of a first-class soccer facility and further demonstrates Marquette University's commitment to excellence in soccer. The commitment, generosity and leadership of our alumni and benefactors makes it possible for our coaches and student-athletes to have the resources necessary to compete nationally. The impact of this gift will be felt by student-athletes for years to come, and we are truly grateful," said Steve Cottingham, interim athletic director.

Klein and his wife, Barbara, are graduates of Marquette's College of Business Administration. Both started their careers in banking, and Dennis Klein became a successful real estate developer in Wisconsin, Arizona and Florida. He is also the chairman of KBS Construction, Inc., which has built numerous residential, institutional and commercial projects in Milwaukee and Madison. Barbara Klein is an active volunteer for several community organizations, including Journey House.

Marquette University has made significant improvements to its soccer facilities in the last 12 months. Prior to last season, the university installed "Field Turf" at the practice facility adjacent to the playing field at Valley Fields. The new, state-of-the-art surface offers durability with the feel of real grass while eliminating the body burns associated with typical synthetic turf, but more importantly it allowed Marquette's soccer programs to practice on campus daily. Before this resource existed, the teams traveled up to 40 minutes one-way on a daily basis in order to practice.

"We are thrilled that the University has committed to building a soccer specific stadium. It will be unique to Marquette and provide a tremendous venue forour program, students, supporters and community," said Marquette Head Women's Soccer Coach Markus Roeders. "Valley Fields will be home to one of the finest collegiate soccer stadiums in the country and our teams will be proud to call it 'home'. We have always had a great grass surface but the addition of a grandstand and facilities available for our teams will provide an excellent all-around soccer environment. The new stadium will bring a special place for our teams to compete".

"The focus and excitement of a soccer facility that bridges the gap between the new pro soccer stadiums and multi-use high school stadiums is vital for the game at all levels and especially if the collegiate level is to really grow and flourish," said Marquette Head Men's Soccer Coach Louis Bennett. "The Big East is a progressive league and we are positioning Marquette as a leader and on the cutting edge nationally."

Bennett continued, "Marquette University offers student athletes such a great college experience, our facility will now mirror what the rest of the university offers."

Both head coaches expressed their gratitude to the Klein family for their generosity.

Cottingham said the practice facility and campaign for a new stadium are consistent with the University's mission of excellence and will position Marquette's soccer programs in an elevated status nationally. He said the goal is to complete the fundraising efforts by the end of the calendar year and begin construction after the final home soccer match this fall. The stadium is scheduled to open in September 2008.