Excelsior Stadium
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Excelsior Stadium is home to Airdrie United F.C. (previously Airdrieonians) of the Scottish Football League First Division. Although originally officially titled Shyberry Excelsior Stadium ("Shyberry" being a company who sponsored the stadium in its early years), this title is rarely used by Airdrie United supporters and those of other teams - New Broomfield being the preferred name after the club's previous stadium.
Following the sale of Airdrieonians F.C. stadium (Broomfield Park) to a large supermarket chain in 1994, the club searched for several years for a suitable site, and planning permission for, a new stadium. This was eventually finished in 1998 and Airdrieonians played here until the club went out of business due to heavy debts in May 2002. This left an opening in the Scottish League, which was filled by Gretna F.C..
To gain a spot in the league, the Airdrie United F.C. owner bought out the ailing Clydebank FC, and its spot in the League. Ownership of the stadium was passed to the local North Lanarkshire Council rather than the club itself.
As of Thursday 19th October 2006, management of the stadium is under the control of a new company called "Airdrieonians Football Club", which is owned by the directors of Airdrie United Football Club.
The ground seats 10,171 and, as well as Airdrie home games, has also played host to Scottish League Challenge Cup finals, as well as Scotland Under-21 fixtures and Old Firm reserve matches. The pitch size is 115 x 75 yards.