Southern Illinoise University Athletics
Jim Hayes Stadium Club Highlights Support, Legacy
08/14/2026 | 10:39:00 | Football, General
CARBONDALE, Ill. — Southern Illinois University celebrated a major moment Thursday with the ribbon-cutting of the newly revitalized Jim Hayes Stadium Club, honoring both a transformational $1 million gift from Jamie and Netta Hayes and the enduring legacy of the Hayes family within Saluki Athletics.
Saluki Athletics and the SIU Foundation marked the occasion with the Hayes family and a small gathering of friends and fellow Salukis, including Coach Nick Hill, reflecting the deep personal connection they have built with SIU.
"(Jim Hayes) was a first-class individual," Hill said. "I'm excited that his name will be here forever. I think Jim would be proud. It's a first-class facility. It's a great space that fans will be excited about. We'll use it in recruiting, and I know Saluki fans will enjoy it for a long time."
Jim Hayes Stadium Club — A Premier Space Reimagined for Game Day
The upgraded Jim Hayes Stadium Club now stands as one of the most impressive hospitality spaces on campus. The revitalization—funded by the Hayes family's gift—includes:
The space also includes premium, all-inclusive seats with a birds-eye view of the Saluki Stadium field. These seats, which are already sold out for the 2026 season, are truly the best in the house.
A Gift That Honors a Legacy
The Hayes family's ties to SIU began in 1961, when Jim Hayes arrived on a football scholarship and earned the nickname "The Axe" as a standout linebacker. After graduating in 1962, he built a life rooted in teaching, coaching and entrepreneurship, eventually founding Jim Hayes, Inc. in Harrisburg. Throughout his life, he remained a devoted supporter of Saluki Athletics until his passing in 2018.
"For my dad's name to be further etched into Saluki history this way is incredible," Jamie Hayes said. "We wanted to make a statement about how we feel about SIU and what the Salukis mean to us and this community. We wouldn't be able to do this if it weren't for him. I think he would be proud."
Jamie Hayes, a 1994 SIU graduate, has long supported Saluki Athletics through charitable giving, business partnerships and decades of involvement at SIU events.
"I grew up going with my dad to basketball games," he said. "SIU has a history of great coaches and great teams. The time spent with my dad was always good. I have great memories of these programs."
Strengthening SIU's Future
SIU Director of Athletics Tim Leonard emphasized the significance of the Hayes family's commitment.
"We don't measure ourselves by what we lack. We measure ourselves by what we build together," he said. "That's what Jamie and Netta believe."
Jamie Hayes echoed that belief.
"The success of SIU can do nothing but help the region," he said. "Now, more than ever, it's time to step it up a little bit more. You're going to need more community involvement. You have to bleed maroon no matter what."
To make a gift to Saluki Athletics, visit saluk.is/give. For more information about a naming gift, contact Kat Martin at katm@foundation.siu.edu or 815-757-0308.
Saluki Athletics and the SIU Foundation marked the occasion with the Hayes family and a small gathering of friends and fellow Salukis, including Coach Nick Hill, reflecting the deep personal connection they have built with SIU.
"(Jim Hayes) was a first-class individual," Hill said. "I'm excited that his name will be here forever. I think Jim would be proud. It's a first-class facility. It's a great space that fans will be excited about. We'll use it in recruiting, and I know Saluki fans will enjoy it for a long time."
Jim Hayes Stadium Club — A Premier Space Reimagined for Game Day
The upgraded Jim Hayes Stadium Club now stands as one of the most impressive hospitality spaces on campus. The revitalization—funded by the Hayes family's gift—includes:
- Refurbished Saluki décor and seating featuring modern finishes, updated furniture, and a refreshed visual identity that celebrates SIU tradition.
- Two bars set up to enhance service flow and create a true premium hospitality environment.
- An unmatched game-day ambiance designed to elevate the fan experience with comfort, energy and a welcoming social atmosphere.
The space also includes premium, all-inclusive seats with a birds-eye view of the Saluki Stadium field. These seats, which are already sold out for the 2026 season, are truly the best in the house.
A Gift That Honors a Legacy
The Hayes family's ties to SIU began in 1961, when Jim Hayes arrived on a football scholarship and earned the nickname "The Axe" as a standout linebacker. After graduating in 1962, he built a life rooted in teaching, coaching and entrepreneurship, eventually founding Jim Hayes, Inc. in Harrisburg. Throughout his life, he remained a devoted supporter of Saluki Athletics until his passing in 2018.
"For my dad's name to be further etched into Saluki history this way is incredible," Jamie Hayes said. "We wanted to make a statement about how we feel about SIU and what the Salukis mean to us and this community. We wouldn't be able to do this if it weren't for him. I think he would be proud."
Jamie Hayes, a 1994 SIU graduate, has long supported Saluki Athletics through charitable giving, business partnerships and decades of involvement at SIU events.
"I grew up going with my dad to basketball games," he said. "SIU has a history of great coaches and great teams. The time spent with my dad was always good. I have great memories of these programs."
Strengthening SIU's Future
SIU Director of Athletics Tim Leonard emphasized the significance of the Hayes family's commitment.
"We don't measure ourselves by what we lack. We measure ourselves by what we build together," he said. "That's what Jamie and Netta believe."
Jamie Hayes echoed that belief.
"The success of SIU can do nothing but help the region," he said. "Now, more than ever, it's time to step it up a little bit more. You're going to need more community involvement. You have to bleed maroon no matter what."
To make a gift to Saluki Athletics, visit saluk.is/give. For more information about a naming gift, contact Kat Martin at katm@foundation.siu.edu or 815-757-0308.
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