Nobles will have a synthetic turf field before the fall athletic season begins in September 2012.
Turf has become the standard playing surface for field hockey, and the new field will allow Nobles to host tournament play in that sport. The field will also extend practice and play time for boys and girls lacrosse and allow various teams to practice in all weather conditions.
“Turf is the new standard,” says Alex Gallagher ’90, director of athletics. “It’s a great gift to be able to do this.”
Maura Sullivan, dean of faculty and varsity field hockey coach, agrees. “Having the field will raise the bar for our program,” she says. “All college and international field hockey is played on turf.
“Field hockey is a faster, more skilled game on turf. The addition of the field will also have impact on drawing students to Nobles.”
Mike McHugh, director of buildings and grounds, expects work to begin immediately after graduation and be complete in 10–12 weeks. An engineering firm is engaged to help plan the project. Next stages include hiring a contractor to prepare the field and engaging a turf company, who will ultimately “lay the carpet.”
The turf field will be the latest addition to campus athletic facilities, which include 10 playing fields, tennis and squash courts, hockey rink, indoor jogging track, strength and conditioning center and a boathouse with access to the Charles River. The turf field will replace Lower Bridge Street field.
“The field will serve specific programs but also acts as a multipurpose field as needs arise,” says Gallagher. “We are incredibly proud of Nobles’ state-of-the-art facilities.”