The University of Wisconsin-Superior and Yellowjacket Athletics, along with Cenovus Energy and the Superior Refinery, have announced a partnership to benefit the university and further enhance its on-campus athletic facilities.

The agreement, which comes with a three-year term and totals $450,000, will support UW-Superior’s construction of Superior Choice Credit Union Stadium, while also providing funds to enhance the game-day experience for Yellowjacket student-athletes, spectators and the community.

The plan is to start construction this spring, and start soccer there in the fall.

“We are deeply appreciative for Cenovus Energy’s continued commitment to supporting our students, university and community,” said UW-Superior Director of Athletics Nick Bursik. “This partnership will further enhance our efforts in supporting our student-athletes while also elevating game-day experiences for fans and the community.”

In 2021, Cenovus Energy, Inc., merged with Husky Energy, Inc., with the merged entity being named Cenovus Energy. Since the merger, Cenovus Energy has continued to weave itself into the fabric of the local community through partnerships that benefit a wide range of people, from youth to seniors. Cenovus Energy’s support with the university and the UW-Superior Foundation has enhanced student scholarships and programming, including the university’s new floating classroom and research vessel, the Sadie Ann.

“Cenovus Energy is a valued partner of the university, supporting our students, faculty and staff through their contributions that aid student scholarships, advance research and opportunities, and invest further in our programs,” said UW-Superior Chancellor Renée Wachter. “We are thrilled for the continuation of our partnership and the immense impact it will have on our students and community.”

A portion of the funds from Cenovus Energy will be used by UW-Superior to make additional enhancements to Superior Choice Credit Union Stadium, including the purchase of a video board. Further, Cenovus will be the sponsor of the Cenovus Energy Fan Zone, an area designed to create a pre-game environment for fans and spectators on select game days at the stadium.

Finally, funds will be used to create the Cenovus Women in Leadership program, an annual event focused on helping to develop the next generation of female leaders at UW-Superior and in the community. The program will feature a dinner and keynote speaker. Additional information regarding the inaugural event will be shared later this winter.

“For 74 years, the Superior Refinery has been an important part of the community. Our employees not only live and work here, but the products we make help to energize this community and the region,” said Cenovus Energy Superior Refinery General Manager Matt Gunn. “We are pleased to partner with UW-Superior by supporting the construction of the soccer and track stadium, which will enhance the game-day experience of athletes and the community. One of our values is Do It Together and through our partnership, we are living that value and continuing to create a place where everyone in the Superior region can come together and thrive.”