Bears Debut New Aaron Rodgers Locker Room For Kickoff Saturday
Cal’s stadium project in 2012 included a much-needed upgrade, expansion and modernizition of their locker rooms but as visually-appealing as the new lockers and space were in comparison to the predecessors, the lockers were not built to withstand the rigors of servicing 115 players and gear and were badly in need of renovation.
Enter former Cal and current NFL star quarterback Aaron Rodgers to the rescue. Rodgers’ recent reconnection with the program under Cal head coach Justin Wilcox helped clear the way for Rodgers to give back to the program in a tangible way with the newly-finished Aaron Rodgers Locker Room.
Just in time for today’s 3:30 kickoff vs. UC Davis.
The newly-refurbished locker rooms are more roomy and expansive, with flat screens mounted throughout, displaying information for players and position groups that before could only be verbally communicated or distributed in writing.
"I'm pleased and proud to make this gift to support Cal football," Rodgers said when the project was announced. "My years at Cal were among the best years of my life. My time in Berkeley created lasting, unforgettable memories.
“Coach Wilcox was on the coaching staff when I was a Bear, and I am excited about the team's direction with Justin pointing the way. He is a tremendous football coach and an even better role model for his players. I hope that my contribution can help him move this program forward."
Dr. Paul F. White '68, an internationally recognized expert in ambulatory anesthesia and pain management, also generously contributed a six-figure gift to the project. He and his wife, Linda, have donated to numerous other projects benefiting Golden Bear student-athletes, including the renovation of California Memorial Stadium and the establishment of the Paul F. White Sports Medicine Complex at Haas Pavilion. White is also the brother of former Cal football All-American and College Football Hall of Famer Ed White, and this contribution is just the latest example of his dedication to Cal Athletics and student-athlete wellness.
The players’ reaction at the opening of the new locker tells it all in the tweet released on Wednesday at the reveal:
Player reaction has been exceedingly positive.
"My first impression of the locker was that it is bright and amazing,” said Cal safety Ashtyn Davis. “I always see that stuff on TV and social media, but I've never been a part of anything like that. We've got a championship shape locker room. Huge thanks to Aaron Rodgers for his super-generous donation. We can't thank him enough. The locker room is amazing."
"We can't thank Aaron Rodgers enough for his investment in our football program, said center Michael Saffle. “It is inspirational to know that he cares about us so much. The new locker room is terrific and will be a great asset for our current team as well as recruiting future Golden Bears."
Linebacker Evan Weaver concurs.
"The new locker room is awesome,” said Weaver. “I'd like to thank Aaron Rodgers so much for his donation. All of us love it. It is a major improvement from our previous locker room. We know that we can perform to our highest ability with this one. We couldn't have anything better. Go Bears!"