New softball and baseball turf fields are being installed at Stamford High School in hopes of leveling the playing field.
The Black Knights have been looked down upon by their fellow FCIAC teams for years now. The fields have been in bad condition for a while, which put Stamford High at a disadvantage from other schools like Darien and Fairfield Warde, who have turf fields. Turf fields allow for even ground, which can help prevent injury to the players. Safety isn’t the only advantage these fields provide; they also allow for more playing time and less maintenance.
In a meeting with Superintendent Dr. Tamu Lucero and Associate Superintendent Dr. Michael Fernandes both expressed strong support for the turf installation. Fernandes talked about how turf fields do not require as much maintenance, cut costs, and are more durable. Fernandes said that “natural grass requires resting in between games, which is not the case with turf fields.” This allows the fields to be used more frequently for practices and games.
Fernandes also mentioned that having these new turf fields will allow players to stay on campus instead of going to places such as West Beach for practice. Not only is that inconvenient, it is also unsafe. Going off campus means athletes do not have access to the school’s resources, like athletic trainer Jordan Napolitano.
Most people, including administrators and students, seem to be in favor of the turf fields. However, some athletes have some negative opinions about the ‘improvements.’
Softball Captain Kaitlyn Fox said that she is in favor for the most part, but she sees some downsides when it comes to pitching. “There is little to no support for push off,” said Fox.
Junior Victoria Tiberio also noticed an inconvenience that comes with the new turf: having turf now means that the players need to get new cleats, specifically for turf. “They will still be playing against schools with dirt fields,” she said, meaning the players will need to have shoes for both fields.
Turf fields have benefits such as better looks, an even ground for the players, and more rooms for sports like soccer to practice. However, there are also drawbacks for the fields: players need new turf cleats and there will be less physical support, especially for pitchers. Overall, the new turf fields are going to be an adjustment for all parties involved.
