CONWAY — The Coastal Carolina athletic department released the rendering Friday. Below is the department’s press release:
Heavy equipment dotted Benton Field at Brooks Stadium this week as preparations for Coastal Carolina’s new “Teal Turf” began.
The home for Chanticleer football and women’s lacrosse amidst the TD Sports Complex had its top layer of grass removed and by mid-April a new and unique-looking playing surface will be installed featuring the first “Teal Green Turf” field in the nation.
“When the decision to install an artificial turf field was made, it only made sense that the turf be teal,” said Coastal Carolina interim director of athletics Matt Hogue. “In addition to our winning tradition, we are known nationally for our distinctive color scheme. And it’s not just the color our teams wear, but a campus-wide identity. We felt this would be a great opportunity to further build that brand.”
The project has a budget of $1.2 million and will give the sports programs more versatility and options for both practice and game days.
“The economics of this project are advantageous. This surface has approximately a 10-year lifespan and will save significant dollars and resources in terms of maintenance, painting and other field upkeep costs,” Hogue said. “Additionally, the project is in alignment with the sustainability goals of the recent gift provided by TD Bank to the University.”
Artificial turf versus a grass playing surface will help alleviate practice space challenges as well as provide a safe and durable option if there is inclement weather. Also, the quality of the playing surface will remain consistent throughout several seasons including postseason football, and in the spring, women’s lacrosse which is typically contested on artificial turf. The more-versatile surface also provides the University the opportunity to host non-athletic special events.