West Campus Aztec Field - Pima Aztecs
- Richard Smith
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey, and Pima Athletics
Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71
West Campus Aztec Field
2202 W Anklam Road
Tucson, AZ 85709
Year Opened: 1971 Capacity: 500
A Desert Gem
Pima Community College, established in 1966 when the citizens of Pima County, Arizona, approved the formation of a junior college district, has grown into a vital multi-campus institution in the greater Tucson area. The West Campus, where its athletics are centered, officially opened to students in the fall of 1971.
The college’s athletic teams, known as the Aztecs, compete in the Arizona Community College Athletic Conference (ACCAC) as part of the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA). The Aztecs have a strong tradition across various sports, consistently fielding competitive programs that are frequently ranked nationally, including both the men’s and women’s soccer teams.
The West Campus Aztec Field, located within the Chapman Automotive Sports Complex, is a testament to the college's commitment to its student-athletes. The West Campus itself is architecturally significant, having been built between 1968 and 1970 with a bold, exposed reinforced cast-in-place concrete design. It is nationally recognized for its innovative, Brutalist-inspired aesthetic, which interacts beautifully with the desert topography.
The mascot of Pima Community College is the Aztec, which is a powerful and respected symbol across the campus, though the mascot's in-person appearance for fan interaction at smaller regular-season matches is not guaranteed.
This is a review of the women’s soccer experience, but the setup for the men’s team is identical.
Food & Beverage 0
There is no permanent stand at the field, although some small snacks may be sold for certain games, but you should plan on bringing your own.
Atmosphere 3
The crowd is a mix of family, fellow students, and local soccer aficionados with a typical attendance of around 100 or so fans.
The soccer field is well-maintained, offering a great sightline to the action, and the desert backdrop of the Tucson Mountains provides a serene and beautiful setting, especially as the sun sets.
Neighborhood 4
Tucson, Arizona, is the second-largest city in Arizona as well as the county seat of Pima County. In the metro area, over one million people live.
The West Campus Aztec Field is located on the north part of the Pima Community College West Campus, placing it on the western edge of Tucson, close to the stunning Tucson Mountains. This location offers a compelling contrast: top-tier junior college sports set against a backdrop of natural Sonoran Desert beauty. The area surrounding the campus is a mix of residential zones and desert landscape, which contributes to the tranquil feeling.
For those looking for local flavor, the immediate area has a variety of quick dining options. A short drive will bring you to local staples like Filiberto's Mexican Food, which is a popular regional chain for quick, satisfying Mexican fare, a must-try for travelers looking for authentic Southwestern flavors.
The entire Tucson area is rich in history and culture, offering unique attractions like the Mission San Xavier del Bac, a historic Spanish Catholic mission just a short drive from the college. This proximity to both urban amenities and untouched nature means the venue serves as a great launchpad for exploring the unique character of Tucson before or after the game.
Fans 3
The crowd is predominantly composed of players’ family members, friends, and other Pima students who are genuinely invested in the success of the Aztecs.
Access 3
Reaching the West Campus Aztec Field is straightforward and stress-free for the average visitor. The facility is easily accessible, located on the northern part of the sprawling West Campus. One of the most significant fan advantages is the plenty of parking nearby, which means the typical sports travel headache of searching for an expensive, faraway spot is eliminated.
Being located on a college campus means the infrastructure is designed to handle student and staff traffic, and this translates into an easy arrival for event attendees. You simply navigate to the West Campus and follow the signage or campus map to the Chapman Automotive Sports Complex. The entrance to the complex is immediately visible once in the vicinity of the athletic facilities.
Given the venue's location near major Tucson roadways, getting to and from the site, even from downtown or other parts of the city, is a relatively simple drive. The ease of access and ample, free parking are a tremendous convenience that greatly improves the overall game-day journey.
Return on Investment 3
Costs are a bit high with general admission at $10. You need to pay with cash or Zelle, which is a unique mix of options.
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Extras 3
Pima women’s soccer program has a history of national success, having made multiple appearances in the NJCAA Division II National Championship tournament, a remarkable feat for a community college program. This level of consistent excellence means you are watching a truly elite program.
Another unique fact is the prominent presence of the surrounding Brutalist-style architecture of the main West Campus buildings, which were designed by renowned architects and have been featured in national architectural journals. This architectural detail makes a trip to the Pima campus a unique cultural experience in addition to a sporting one.
Aztec Field is part of the larger Chapman Automotive Sports Complex, a modern, cohesive hub for the college's outdoor athletic activities, underscoring the institutional commitment to its sports teams.
Final Thoughts
Pima Community College soccer provides an outstanding, high-value opportunity to see nationally-ranked junior college athletics in a beautiful, accessible setting. The experience is intimate, authentic, and focused on the pure love of the game, making it a highly recommended stop for any true sports enthusiast traveling through Tucson.
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