From NWOSU Sports Info.
Jay Lee, Sports Information Director
ALVA, Okla. — Mowing and watering the grass at Northwestern Oklahoma State University’s football stadium will soon become a thing of the past.
Northwestern has entered into a contract with Field Turf USA, Inc., to install an artificial playing surface, replacing the natural Bermuda grass surface that has been on the playing field since the venue opened in 1969.
“The new artificial turf field will be the final piece to the transformation of Ranger Field through the Vision for Victory campaign for athletics,” said Dr. Janet Cunningham, university president. “The turf, in conjunction with the new locker room and press box, will make Ranger Field one of the showcase facilities in Oklahoma.”
“There are numerous advantages to artificial turf, including reduced field maintenance costs and the conservation of water. In addition, Northwestern will now be in a position to play host to more events such as high school playoff and all-star games.”
Cunningham said private funds will be used to purchase and install the turf, including support from Pioneer Cellular and the Charles Morton Share Trust. The Pioneer Cellular logo will be included on the field of play.
In addition, two of Alva’s financial institutions, BancCentral National Association and Alva State Bank and Trust have purchased the rights for sideline advertisements.
“Many of the student-athletes we are recruiting, especially from larger schools, already play on artificial surfaces, so this will become an advantage for us in that respect,” Cunningham said. “We also will be able to provide an all-weather surface for marching band contests and other events.
Work on the project will begin immediately with completion expected in March.
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