When James Madison field hockey reports for preseason camp this week, the Dukes will be returning to a brand new turf and water system at the JMU Field Hockey Complex.
“We were excited to receive funding to replace our field hockey turf and irrigation system with the Desso system,” Ty Phillips, Assistant Athletic Director for Facilities and Events, commented. “This project is an exciting way to kick off the return of Coach Morgan to our program and shows a commitment to having outstanding athletic facilities for our student-athletes to practice and compete on.”
The Desso Sportilux MF is a water-based pitch made of synthetic grass and mimics an international playing surface. The grass, made of monofilament polyethylene fibers, helps ensure a comfortable and uniform playing surface for training and playing.
In addition to the new turf, the installation of a state-of-the-art irrigation system allows for a more efficient and effective wetting of the turf. This helps ensure smoother movement of the ball during practices and games.
“We feel very fortunate to have a new water-based turf,” head coach Christy Morgan stated. “This surface allows us to train at a high level on a quality surface, and we all feel so proud to step on our beautiful new field. To me, this speaks volumes of the support for our program.”
JMU opens camp on Thursday, August 14, in preparation for the 2014 season, which marks the 20th anniversary of the first national championship (1994) and 40th anniversary of the field hockey program. The Dukes open the season at Kent State on August 30 at 1 p.m. before returning home to face Longwood on September 5 at 7 p.m.
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Chris Graham
