Vandals unveil new outdoor turf field

MOSCOW — The outdoor turf field at the University of Idaho, located to the east of the Kibbie Dome, has been renovated thanks primarily to contributions from DuRae Scott McDonald Foundation, Greg and Debra McDonald, who saw an opportunity to give back to the university they love.

“It’s something that is important to us,” Greg McDonald said. “The replacement of that turf is going to make an incredible difference, especially in the ability to market the university to incoming students. Regardless if you’re in band, varsity sports, club sports, intramurals, or a resident on campus, it’s going to be a show place for the university in many respects. It’s long overdue in many respects and we’re excited that can help get it done.”

Coast to Coast Turf recently installed a new Astro Turf RootZone 3D3 playing surface, as well as a Brock Pad PowerBase Pro. The new playing surface combines three unique fibers in one system to maximize both durability and aesthetics, Idaho said in a news release. The benefits of the PowerBase Pad are immense. The extra layer provides additional cushioning for the student-athletes while also keeping the playing surface fast to play on.

The new surface is already featured at several other institutions across the country. Oklahoma State, Boston College and Utah State all utilize the surface on their game fields, while Pac-12 programs like UCLA and Stanford have installed it for their practice fields. Stanford women’s soccer, which won the national championship in 2017 and 2019, also competes on this surface full-time.

The new turf will also be utilized by Idaho intramurals, club sports and other activities throughout the year, making it a true University space.

The new Idaho Central Credit Union (ICCU) Arena is expected to open this fall.

Memorial Gym, as well as the UI Swim Center, were also renovated this summer. The gym floor was resurfaced, while the Swim Center received new record boards.