By Bert Sempier
Staff Writer
Marywood University has made a huge upgrade to its sports facilities by adding a synthetic turf field. This is the first season the field will be in service. Director of Athletics and Recreation Dr. Mary Jo Gunning could not be happier. “I’m absolutely delighted. By adding this field, it truly allows us to practice at times that are suitable for our student athletes,” said Gunning. The field is also equipped with lights which allows practices and games to be held at night.
The teams that will be hosting games on this field are Men’s and Women’s Soccer, Field Hockey, and Men’s and Women’s Lacrosse. The Marywood Baseball and Softball teams will be given the chance to conduct winter practices on the new field as well. The playing field will also be used for cross country training, health and physical education classes and summer sports camps.
Dr. Gunning says a turf field “is the way to go.” Not only is it multipurpose, but it can withstand the harsh winters in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Freshman soccer player Ryan Jones believes there are advantages to playing on turf. “The flow of play is easier, there are no bumps like on some grass fields.” He would go on to say “it’s easier to play on in wet conditions.” Turf fields are also environmentally friendly. The field will not need to be watered and no pesticides will be used to keep the playing surface green.
Not only is Dr. Gunning pleased with how the field turned out, but the coaches and players are as well. Soccer player Collin Bigart says: “the field is simply beautiful. I hope that it brings more fans to the games.” Cross country runner Damon Giambrone describes the field as “comfortable for my feet.” He feels this way when the team completes agility workouts on the surface.
Dr. Gunning would like to thank President Sister Anne Munley, Cabinet, Board of Trustees, and Grounds Crew. Without their hard work, the field would not have been made possible. Marywood’s turf field is an addition that people will be talking about for years to come.