When Turf Becomes "Gurf"

Courtesy of EMU Athletic Department

The plans for the new EMU turf field.

Some know our turf field through intramurals, others as their "walk through" from the Science Center to the Woods, and some for the heart, sweat, and tears that have been left on the field after practices and games.

On April 17th, the turf that has served EMU proudly for the past 18 years will see its end. The replacement of the "EMC" turf became a top priority for the school after the ODAC and officials raised concerns that the turf was unsafe to play on due to the creases where the turf was splitting apart. Graduating senior and field hockey fullback Beth Peachey said, "It was in the back of my mind that I might get my foot stuck in a large crevasse and potentially twist my ankle." Several meetings took place between the Athletic Director, David King, and the Presidential Cabinet to determine where the new turf would go and the budget that would be needed to complete the project.

Moving the turf to a new location in the middle of the track was contemplated, but it was determined that the cost would be too great after installing the new turf along with a drainage system and lights that would have to go along with the field. The decision was finally made that the turf would stay in its current location having a $525,000 budget. The budget would include the replacement of the turf, widening the turf eight feet on both sides, and the construction of a new six-foot fence.

Many of us are eagerly awaiting the arrival of the new "gurf" as the field hockey team likes to call it, which is a combination of fake grass rubber and sand. Peachey said, "It is definitely better than what we have now, but it's not exactly what some of us were hoping for because the new turf will slow down the game compared to what are used too."

Students will have the opportunity to help remove the old field on April 17. Construction on the new field will begin on May 1 and should be completed roughly 14-17 days later. It will definitely be a nice change of scenery to EMU's campus, and one that was needed desperately. The field hockey team would like to say thanks to all who made getting the new turf possible and really appreciate the support!