Nebula Perforated Metal Fence for St. Thomas Stadium
Owner: University of St. Thomas
Perforated Fence Fabrication: StellarCraft
Product: nebula perforated fence
Challenge: A Historic Leap to D1 Demands a Stadium to Match
In 2021, the University of St. Thomas (UST) made the significant transition from NCAA Division III to Division I athletics. The university made history as the first school to transition directly from DIII to D1. This shift elevated expectations across all athletic facilities. The current O’Shaughnessy Stadium required upgrades to align with D1 standards for athletic performance, fan experience, and university reputation.
The stadium renovation included a modern playing surface with a new turf and a purple 400-meter track. With a seating capacity of 5,025 fans, the venue was structurally sound but lacked the visual cohesion and perimeter definition expected at the Division I level.
A key requirement emerged: develop a durable, visually impactful fencing system that could define the stadium perimeter along the track while reinforcing the university’s brand identity.
Solution: Custom Fabricated Nebula Perforated Metal Fence System
To meet these demands, the University partnered with Stellarcraft to fabricate a fully custom Nebula perforated metal fence.
The system consisted of 84 aluminum panels, each measuring 4 feet tall by 4 feet wide and fabricated from 3/16” aluminum plate. Each panel was paired with an 8’ 3 1/8” vertical post, engineered to integrate directly into the grass for secure installation. Stellarcraft’s standard square perforation pattern was selected with a 24.2% open area.
Custom attachment details were developed to ensure consistent alignment and structural stability between panels and posts. A deliberate 3.5-inch gap between the bottom of each panel and the ground was incorporated to accommodate drainage and maintenance access.
From a finishing standpoint, the perforated metal fence was powder coated to match St. Thomas’s signature purple. The posts were finished in a contrasting satin black. To further enhance branding, custom metal shields featuring the university’s name and logo were powder coated white and mechanically fastened to select panels using tamper-resistant hardware. These branded elements were strategically positioned beneath the scoreboard for maximum visibility.
The completed Nebula perforated metal fence runs in sections along the perimeter of the 400-meter track. The fence serves as a unified boundary that integrates seamlessly with the stadium’s architecture.
Result: A Branded Perimeter Built for D1 Athletics
With the installation of the Nebula perforated metal fence, the stadium perimeter was transformed into a cohesive architectural feature that aligns with Division I expectations. Built from aluminum and finished with a durable powder coating, the panels are designed to withstand Minnesota’s harsh and unpredictable seasonal conditions without constant maintenance.
A deep purple finish and integrated branding components brings a stronger sense of identity to the space. Together these elements result is a professional-grade facility that enhances the game-day experience for all athletes, students, and spectators.
