History

Named for William W. Cottingham, who had served as Superintendent of Easton Public Schools for nearly 60 years (1853-1913), Cottingham Stadium hosted its first Easton Football game on September 27, 1924. Temporary stands held about 2,000 fans for this game against Stroudsburg.

The need for more stands grew quickly and by the 1925 season, permanent stands were built on the south side of the field. The 1930 season opened with new permanent stands on the north side as well.

The largest crowd to ever attend a game at Cottingham was in 1939. The undefeated Red Rovers played host to Bethlehem, also undefeated. At halftime, a crowd estimated at around 14,000 saw Easton enter the locker room (at that time under the north side stands) down 13-0. A second-half effort propelled Easton to a 14-13 win, leading them on to an undefeated season.

The first game played under the lights was held in September of 1953. Fans watched Easton defeat Wilson High School 19-0 in the first, of many, night games to be played at Cottingham.

The Cottingham Stadium Field House was first opened in September of 1956 and was renamed the Bob Rute Field House in 1982, honoring the long-time Easton Football coach. The field house will also receive much-needed upgrades during this renovation of the stadium.