2006. That was the last time, until this year, that EMU replaced its turf field. The average lifespan of a turf field is between eight to ten years, according to fieldturf.com. This means that, until this year, the turf was around for more than double its lifespan. 

Over that time, the field saw numerous injuries. From ACL tears and broken ankles, to turf burns and other nagging bruises. The poor condition, and constant injuries due to the turf have been well noted over the years.

Over the summer, a new turf was installed. At this current point in time, three teams are playing on the field. Those sports being Men’s and Women’s soccer, and Field Hockey. There are also clubs, such as Ultimate Frisbee, and intramural sports that use the turf field recreationally. 

“The old turf had 2 ACL tears happen on it,” said senior goalkeeper Aja Laun. “A player tripped and broke her wrist because of the turf, and several players have gotten sprained ankles from the old turf. As for minor things, goalies cut their arms up from the old turf’s poor quality and it was much easier for us to get bad turf burns.”

Laun noted the much better conditions of the new turf, saying, “the new turf is so much better than the old one.” Laun said that “the new turf has a much nicer surface, and the ball moves smoother on it.” “Also, as a goalkeeper, the new turf is much more comfortable to land on while diving.” Laun also said that at this current point, she’s gotten no turf burns, or scratches this season.

“It’s not a big liability now,” said senior Midfielder and Defender Mary Kate Bomberger. “There’s no wrinkle down the sideline that makes the ball skip out of bounds whenever I throw it in,” Bomberger added.

“The new turf is light years better than the old one,” said junior Forward and Midfielder Leah Beachy. Beachy added that “teammates have yet to break their wrists due to slipping during drills.” “I attribute that to the major improvement in quality,” Beachy noted. 

Other than the three sports playing currently, Lacrosse is the only other official team sport to use the turf. All sports, and even some intramural sports had players, or people suffer repeated injuries. However, at this point, it seems as if the new turf being implemented, has helped remedy the injury problem.