Sloshing through muddy grass while tracking a ball overhead, leaving the field with dirt-stained jerseys, and feeling the disappointment of a rain delay is no longer an issue for the baseball and softball teams. Five months after renovations began, and approximately $2 million dollars later, the transformation from grass to the turf of the North baseball and softball fields is close to completion just in time for the spring season. 

Weather conditions contributed to fluctuations in practice stability on the previous grass fields as practices were often delayed and canceled due to flooding. With the new turf, this is no longer a worry for head JV softball coach Amy Zaranek. She is looking forward to the benefits that the new field will bring. 

“I think the turf will bring a new level of consistency to our performance and schedule,” Zaranek said. “It should drain well so we won’t have to worry about big puddles of mud as much as we did in the past.”

The new turf will eliminate the concerns that come with rain, however, senior varsity outfielder Leah Salisbury says that she will miss the muddy aftermath that came with her giving a game her all. 

“I would say the disadvantage is that we can’t get dirty anymore if we slide or make a play,” Salisbury said. 

As the spring season begins each year, having turf can help minimize interruptions on the field. Varsity boys pitcher Henry Rocho is looking forward to this season and future preseason training on the turf. 

“[The turf field] helps us get outside earlier so we get more practice on an actual field before the season starts,” Rocho said.  

In order to keep the turf maintained, the team has to focus on its upkeep. However, the responsibility is not nearly as much as it was on the grass fields. Painting lines and brushing rocks was a constant regimen for keeping the grass updated. This meant when the score was finalized, the work was not. Players and coaches would have to stay after to restore the field. Salisbury is relieved to have this task off her hands for her senior season. 

“The field is always ready now, the lines and bases are always set for whenever we use the field,” Salisbury said. “Everything is already in, so we don’t have to do any work after games or practices.”

 Having the fields ready for play is something that the teams will use to their advantage, according to Zaranek. Although their post-game routine will be cut back, there will now be new rules for the field’s upkeep. She plans on implementing a new system and eliminating damaging products. 

“We can’t allow metal cleats on the field, both for its own upkeep and most importantly, player safety,” Zaranek said. “We also won’t allow sunflower seeds or sports drinks other than water, or

anything that could stain it or get stuck in the surface.”

Despite the regulations, players continue to keep positive energy and are willingly altering their routines in order to enjoy the renovation. As Salisbury plays her final year on the high school team, she has a new aspect to look forward to. While Salisbury will be moving on after this season, the fields will stay a foundation for future years. 

“I am very excited and grateful to play on a new field, especially having it be my last season as a senior,” Salisbury said.